The virtual project Mappa Mundi is an interactive digital map that allows the user to explore different areas depicted in the Hereford Mappa Mundi located in the Hereford Cathedral.
Sources
This project is a digital recreation of the medieval treasure Mappa Mundi as well as a timeline of the Chained Library. Funded by the National Heritage Memorial Fund, the Mappa Mundi Trust owns many historical objects and manuscripts that date back to the 8th century. They have an exhibition where people can visit to learn more about both the Hereford Cathedral and the Mappa Mundi.
Processes
The virtual map is built like other digital interactive maps. However, you’re able to change the map type similar to how you can adjust the layer view on Google Maps. Next to each layer type, there is a logo from a studio or third party company that demonstrates how the final map project was created with contributions from different areas of disciplines.
Presentation
To navigate the map, there are points on each major landmark or story with a finger print symbol to identify it. Different icons are available for easier navigation and the content is sorted into 6 categories. Within those 6 categories you can click on individual points which then direct you to a description about it. You can also navigate to the Chained Library and Magna Carta 1217 timeline projects that are available on the site as well.
Final Thoughts
After exploring the site and the three main digital projects, I did not notice an argument in particular. The information seems entirely educational and I don’t detect any biases as the descriptions as they are mostly analysis of the symbols on the map. I would imagine the target audience being students and researchers who are interested in the subject. The images are very clear and the interface is very user friendly.
One thing I did find weird were the “Plan your visit” buttons located at the end of every description. This raises some questions whether or not the information has been altered to fit a narrative to entice people to visit the cathedral. Especially considering there is an admission fee to visit the exhibition, I would not be surprised if some information has been exaggerated.
