Mobile Applications, Geolocation and Information Technologies for the Study and Communication of the Heritage Value of Public Works

Abstract

Public works’ relationship with the landscape should be among the factors addressed in heritage studies. Their association with place defines their purpose while contributing to the construction of the cultural landscape. Unawareness of the existence of public works is their most powerful enemy. Inventorying and cataloguing are therefore imperative in any study of these assets. The research described here drew from information technologies to develop cost-free mobile apps in an innovative approach to dissemination with the aim to enhance public awareness of and esteem for such elements. The applications described, which are all author-developed and designed to promote Spain’s heritage public works, address the heritage value of rural public works (VAPROP_Rutas), geolocation of the built heritage (GEOPACK), heritage public works on the River Duero (PHDuero), major works of engineering (GOING) and geolocation of Eduardo Torroja’s public works (underway). All these applications build on the geo-positioning features of mobile handsets and are characterised by simple and intuitive interfaces for ready accessibility by the public at large. Users may participate in the experience by entering useful information, new content and suggestions. These apps deploy the latest technologies to enhance the understanding and appreciation of civil works by explaining their territorial, social and cultural significance.