Mediation
Accueil > Manage > The 8 commitments > The transmission of UNESCO’s values → the understanding and embrace of the property’s Outstanding Universal Value is a key challenge for World Heritage inscription. The implementation of the management plan is designed as a driver of cultural development, capable of fostering social life and regional engagement.
Disseminating a “common narrative” without obscuring local specificities
The appropriation of the OUV is achieved through the narrative construction of its history. Specifically within the fortress region, this requires striking a balance between local identities, collective imaginaries, and the historical narrative underpinning the candidacy.
While the term “Cathar castles” is not appropriate to designate the Royal Fortresses of Languedoc, it remains strongly present in people’s minds.
The narrative conveyed must remain faithful to the veracity and scientific rigor of the dossier, without obscuring or diminishing the presentation of the sequence of historical events that led to the establishment of the serial property.
Building on local stakeholders and mediation venues
The mediation strategy as envisioned within the framework of the candidacy aims primarily to rely on the extensive regional network of cultural and educational stakeholders, as well as existing mediation venues.
Rather than creating new structures as such, the mobilization of numerous locally available resources facilitates effective dissemination of mediation efforts and contributes to genuine regional engagement.
Creativity, innovation, and experimentation guide the approach!
The mediation strategy as envisioned within the framework of the candidacy aims primarily to rely on the extensive regional network of cultural and educational stakeholders, as well as existing mediation venues.
Rather than creating new structures as such, the mobilization of numerous locally available resources facilitates effective dissemination of mediation efforts and contributes to genuine regional engagement.
Creativity, innovation, and experimentation guide the approach!
Considering the eight fortresses as a single monument
Although eight in number, the Royal Fortresses of Languedoc form a single property. The mediation approach provides visitors with the keys to understanding, so that they perceive their entry into one of the fortresses as entry into a broader regional system. The dispersion of the castles over a large area implies that the narrative and interpretation must respond to spatial logics. Ensuring that the same story is not told in different mediation venues is a challenge to be met.
Developing a participatory, integrated, and collaborative approach to mediation
Designing an interpretation strategy, building an artistic and cultural education project, organizing an event program… whatever the action undertaken, it must broadly involve all stakeholders, in all their diversity.
Multithematic, transgenerational, and inclusive, mediation must reach all audiences, foster engagement, and permeate all dimensions of local life. The stimulation of volunteering and the involvement of residents are essential for the success and vitality of a UNESCO World Heritage inscription.
