Canterbury has a rich heritage which is facing numerous challenges regarding its preservation and interpretation. Common to historic cities, certain sites are the recipients of attention and funding (Canterbury Cathedral), while others deteriorate from a lack of resources and become obsolete, due to a severing of the connection between the structure and the local population.
Cultural routes offer an opportunity to make heritage that lies along them both visible and relevant to contemporary populations both in the present and in the foreseeable future. This project represents a case-study in using a cultural route, the Via Francigena, to inform and engage the public in multiple aspects of local heritage. The lectures and workshop will build on the experiences gained from the walks to further develop the participants’ skills in heritage management.
The Via Francigena, a cultural route designated by the Council of Europe, traces the historic roads connecting Canterbury to Rome. The project will focus on the UK section of the route, Canterbury to Dover, promoting heritage sites connected to pilgrimage and the industrial heritage of the port town of Dover.
Events that focus on engaging the public with this heritage will include:
1. A public multisensory walk from Shepherdswell to Dover (8 miles) on the Via Francigena, focusing on the historical experience of pilgrimage and highlighting the tangible heritage along the route
2. A reception at the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge to present the digital/print content designed by the applicants with the participation of interested students from across the university
3. Internship opportunities for Kent students at Canterbury museums
4. A walk of 87 miles on the Via Francigena from Rome to the ancient Roman port town of Terracina (14-21 May 2017). The Centre for Heritage is pleased to offer two bursaries for the University of Kent postgraduate students to participate in this walk
5. A one-day workshop focused on engaging local populations in heritage
6. Lectures by a leading specialist on heritage management and cultural diplomacy
This project is funded by the Student Projects Grant Scheme, University Of Kent.