Principle 1- Access and Understanding

Interpretation and presentation programmes, in whatever form deemed appropriate and sustainable, should facilitate physical and intellectual access by the public to cultural heritage sites.

1.1  Effective interpretation and presentation should enhance experience, increase public respect and understanding, and communicate the importance of the conservation of cultural heritage sites.

1.2  Interpretation and presentation should encourage individuals and communities to reflect on their own perceptions of a site and establish a meaningful connection to it by providing insights — as well as facts. The aim should be to stimulate further interest and learning.

1.3  Interpretation and presentation programmes should identify and assess their audiences demographically and culturally. Every effort should be made to communicate the site’s values and significance to its varied audiences.

1.4  The diversity of language among visitors and associated communities connected with a heritage site should be reflected in the interpretive infrastructure.

1.5  Interpretation and presentation activities should also be physically accessible to the public, in all its variety.

1.6  In cases where physical access to a cultural heritage site is restricted due to conservation concerns, cultural sensitivities, adaptive re-use, or safety issues, interpretation and presentation should be provided off-site.