Centres and channels of interpretation

« Interpretation » is an anglo-saxon concept with its origins in Canada. It was defined, and distinguished from education, in 1957 by Freeman Tilden: « An educational activity which aims to reveal meanings and relationships through the use of original objects, by firsthand experience, and by illustrative media, rather than simply to communicate factual information ». The concept has also been employed in Europe for several years in the cultural and tourist sectors. In France it is particularly used in Centres of interpretation of architecture and heritage (Ciap) of Towns of Art and History for whom the Ministry for Culture has created a guide: « The CIAP – a user guide », which can be downloaded from the site www.vpah.culture.fr/vpah/publi/publi.htm .

In the scope of the Septentrion project, the Towns are concerned with town creation centres and channels of interpretation that operate as a network. As tools to be used by the general public, they must as a priority :
- Develop the desire to discover the riches and diversity of the urban heritage,
- Enable the analysis of the history and evolution of the town,
- Communicate effectively the issues of sustainable development for towns,
- Provide a place for dialogue on urban projects,
- Develop a sustainable touristic economy.