At Ask Mona, we’ve been developing cultural mediation tools based on artificial intelligence for several years. While they are often used in museums, these tools also have great potential outdoors, in public spaces.

Exploring a City or Garden by Talking to Its Heritage

This format works particularly well in places designed for strolling and sightseeing: each person can ask questions at their own pace—whether turning a corner, crossing a square, or walking through a garden. The voice function enables even smoother interaction, simply by speaking into their phone.

Two Key Projects: The City of Auxerre and the Château de Versailles

We are currently working with the city of Auxerre and its metropolitan area on an augmented urban tour. The goal: to offer a discovery of the local heritage through points of interest spread throughout the city center, accessible 24/7. By scanning a QR code, each visitor can interact with Germain, a character from Ancient Rome. The experience launches instantly, without the need for an app, and adapts to the visitor’s curiosity level.

In Versailles, the deployed tour will allow visitors to learn more about the locations and statues found in the gardens—directly from their phones.

“This project proves that artificial intelligence can truly reinvent our relationship with heritage by building a bridge between history and innovation.”

Julie Lavet, Head of Partnerships at OpenAI

Simple and Inclusive Mediation, Designed for All

These projects show that digital mediation is not confined to the walls of institutions. It can accompany visitors wherever they are: in a street, a park, or a natural site, adapting to their curiosity and the context of their visit.

Each tour is co-designed with local partners to ensure the content is accurate, engaging, and relevant. It’s a simple way to enrich on-site experiences while offering a fresh perspective on cultural heritage.