Le Morne world heritage site - interpretation centre

Abstract

Through the passing of time we gain perspective of the past and thus we gain knowledge. Through the interpretation of this knowledge we can inform and evaluate our visions of and goals for the future. ‘Our knowledge of time lies in the very heart of our humanity. We learn from the past, we pass on that wisdom to the future, that has been the bedrock of our civilisation’ (OXLEY, P., & KAKU, M.,2007). This knowledge, also known as our cultural heritage, can take numerous forms such as literature, art, architecture, traditional dances, festivals, folk tales, cuisine, etc. Our cultural heritage is to be preserved for posterity and ‘should be protected and made publicly available, subject to requirements of security and privacy, and where this is culturally appropriate’ (Burra Charter,1999:Article 32). The phenomenon of slavery forms part of the cultural heritage of the world, Mauritius and specifically the Le Morne peninsula. Following the area’s inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a need arose for an Interpretation Centre to provide more information on the culturally significant area’s history. For the design of this facility, this thesis study proposes an experiment in interaction of space and emotion, where the container interacts with the user and induces sensations associated with the artefacts, taking the form of multi-media exhibitions, therefore using a variety of tools to induce a holistic, subjective and objective learning experience. Through this proposal the cultural heritage is to be interpreted and displayed to inform contemporary concepts and visions of the future amongst locals and tourists alike.