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This lesson bridges history and technology by using a 3D-printed replica of the crown of King Tiridates III the Great, the Armenian king who made Christianity the official religion of Armenia in the 4th century. Students explore the historical significance of Tiridates’ reign while engaging with the tangible crown model. Through this activity, learners discover how digital fabrication can democratize access to cultural heritage, enabling students and communities—especially those far from museums or original artifacts—to experience and connect with history. The lesson encourages critical thinking about identity, innovation, and inclusivity, while empowering students to imagine other artifacts that could be recreated for a History Box to make the past more accessible for all.
3D-printed replica of King Tiridates III’s crown (or images if replica not available)
Short text/handout on Tiridates III and Armenia as the first Christian nation
Projector or screen for visuals (optional)
Paper, pens, and markers for brainstorming and sketching
Whiteboard or flip chart for group notes
(Optional) Access to internet or tablets for quick research
By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:
Using the 3D-printed crown of King Tiridates III showed me how powerfully technology can bring history alive for students. Many of them had only read about Armenia becoming the first Christian nation, but holding the crown made the past feel immediate and real. I noticed that students who are usually less engaged became curious and asked questions, while others made deep connections between cultural heritage and identity. This experience confirmed for me that digital fabrication is not only a tool for innovation but also a way to advance equity—giving every student, regardless of background, a chance to access and connect with history.
Students are introduced to the 3D-printed crown and learn about its historical and cultural importance.
Show the 3D-printed crown (or images).
Ask students: What do crowns usually symbolize?
Provide a short background on King Tiridates III and Armenia’s conversion to Christianity.
Facilitate a discussion on why this event was significant in world history.
Students explore how digital fabrication can make cultural artifacts accessible and inclusive.
Explain how the crown was 3D modeled and printed.
Discuss benefits of replicas: education, equity, accessibility (e.g., schools without museum access, visually impaired learners).
Students examine the crown and, in small groups, discuss:
Students apply design thinking by proposing their own artifact for a “History Box” and reflect on inclusivity.
In groups, students brainstorm one other artifact they would 3D print for education.
They sketch or describe it, explaining why it is important and who would benefit from access to it.
Each group presents their artifact idea briefly.
Class reflection: How can technology bridge the gap between past and present, and make history more accessible to all?
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