LIL-ECHOES: Living cultural labs: empowering communities through intercultural encounters in virtual worlds
We study how XR and AI virtualise cultural life, reshaping human communication, cultural identity, community bonds, wellbeing, social cohesion and heritage renewal. Through Living Cultural Labs in museums and libraries, we work with migrants, senior citizens and young adults to explore intercultural encounters and cultural evolution in immersive environments.
- Started
- September 2026
- Duration
- 48 months
- Budget
- EUR 3,480,225
- Partners
- 16
- Funded by
- Horizon Europe
Intercultural communication, connection and extended reality
Digital technologies are changing how we connect and experience culture. LIL-ECHOES is a four-year project (2026 to 2030) exploring how culture and relationships develop through intercultural encounters in virtual worlds and extended reality (XR).
16 partners across 8 countries
Universities, cultural establishments and XR technical expertise, collaborating on the impact of virtualisation on culture and community.
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Newcastle University
United Kingdom · Coordinator
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University College London
United Kingdom · Beneficiary
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Technische Hochschule für Angewandte Wissenschaften Augsburg
Germany · Beneficiary
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International Psychoanalytic University Berlin
Germany · Beneficiary
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Università degli Studi di Messina
Italy · Beneficiary
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The Lisbon Council for Economic Competitiveness and Social Renewal asbl
Belgium · Beneficiary
Latest news
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Press release from Newcastle University, UK
Read the Newcastle University press release about the LIL-ECHOES project, showcasing the project links with Newcastle Upon Tyne.
Contact us
For questions about the research, the consortium or working with us, write to the coordinating team.