Conceptual Modeling of European Silk Heritage with the SILKNOW Data Model and Extension

Silk holds significant historical importance in European history, fostering economic growth, innovation in weaving techniques, and the creation of exceptional artifacts. Despite the conservation efforts of numerous institutions, silk heritage remains at risk due to its fragile nature. This paper outlines the methodology employed by the Horizon 2020 SilkNow project aimed at enhancing the promotion and preservation of silk-related cultural heritage collections. We present the development of a CIDOC CRM-based data model for the creation of a comprehensive knowledge graph. We also introduce the SilkNow extension, designed to encapsulate the intricate semantics associated with the production processes of silk fabrics. Our results demonstrate the potential of Semantic Web technologies in safeguarding and enriching the visibility of silk heritage through improved data interoperability and accessibility.