This weekend's European Heritage Open Days offering free access to thousands of events across Europe will be getting a significant boost in Northern Ireland thanks to a new interactive digital map.
Esri Ireland's Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology has been used in thousands of applications around the world and many closer to home, with companies using its mapping software for everything from transport calculator apps to graveyard management systems. Esri has also made its tools publicly available for free to schools across Northern Ireland.
The Department for Communities has now announced that Esri's tech has been used to create a digital story map charting over 300 events across Northern Ireland in preparation for the upcoming 2019 European Heritage Open Days. The events take place this weekend from September 14th to 15th and will open many events and spaces for free to the public.
The interactive digital map will allow visitors to find events near them and check out details of the events all across Northern Ireland. This year's theme will focus on the Arts and Entertainment in Northern Ireland, and people can use the events to learn more about the history of the region and its architecture.
The map can be accessed anywhere online at https://arcg.is/94Oie to help you plan your weekend activities. There's also a section on the map tool to show those buildings being opened to the public that are not normally accessible throughout the year but have only been opened for the European Heritage Open Days weekend. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn more about the significant history of Northern Ireland!
Rachel Steenson, Market Engagement Manager, NI, Esri Ireland said: "The European Heritage Open Days are a fantastic initiative for both locals and tourists in Northern Ireland every year. It’s great to see parks, castles and heritage centres opening their doors for one weekend to really give visitors a flavour of the rich culture and history that Northern Ireland has to offer. The weekend has something for everyone, from walking tours to storytelling sessions. This map will allow those attending the weekend to chart their weekend and to make the most out of what’s going on."
Iain Greenway, Director of Historic Environment in the Department for Communities, said: "The use of a map-based tool has enabled easy access to information and allows people to plan their days. This mapping tool has been an important part of the Department’s continued promotion of this annual event and further underpins our work to support people, build communities and shape places."
Source: Written based on press release
