Mobile media, community identity and contested histories in Ireland

The paper explores and contextualises the results of practice-led research into interactive heritage undertaken as part of the Northern Ireland Peace Process. The project produced two prototype pilot demonstrators providing interactive mobile heritage guides to the Drogheda Viaduct (built in 1855) and the site of the Battle of the Boyne (1690). The overall aim of the productions is to enable visitors to historical sites to access multi-perspective, contested or contradictory histories and conjecture: from different points of view. Using the prototype Irish history guides as case studies, the paper explores of the wider theoretical, methodological and empirical aspects of the re-presentation of contested histories, identity and heritage and their contemporary political ramifications. In particular, it will assess the role and benefits of visualisation in the formation of community identity and in fostering social cohesion.