Since summer 2025, visitors to the gardens of the Château de Versailles have been able to interact with twenty sculptures using a conversational artificial intelligence developed by Ask Mona, in collaboration with OpenAI. This outdoor mediation solution, requiring no physical installation, offers a new way to increase visitor engagement and autonomy.

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On-site mediation with no app to download

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Each point of interest can be accessed via a QR code, directly on the visitor’s smartphone. In French or English, the sculpture responds in real time with oral answers to their questions—covering historical context, symbolism, anecdotes, or

background information.

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The interaction is voice-based and latency-free, thanks to OpenAI’s Realtime technology.

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No download or dedicated device is required. The experience integrates seamlessly into a self-guided garden visit.

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A solution designed for outdoor use

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This lightweight format, accessible via a mobile browser or the Versailles mobile app, delivers personalized mediation with no technical or logistical constraints:

• No physical kiosks,
• No equipment to distribute,
• Quick setup, compatible with outdoor conditions.

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It’s also a way to highlight artworks that previously lacked contextual signage, while extending the reach of the institution’s scientific and cultural discourse.

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Curated content validated by Versailles experts

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All AI-generated responses are based on content approved by the scientific teams at the Château de Versailles.

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Pierre-Hippolyte Pénet, Chief Curator of Sculptures, worked closely with Ask Mona to structure the historical information delivered by each artwork. The result is a mediation experience that remains faithful to academic standards while offering a dynamic, conversational format.

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A measurable impact on attention and engagement

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This voice-based mediation changes how visitors behave. Where a quick glance at a sculpture was once the norm, the interaction now increases the time spent at each point of interest.

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According to data collected at Versailles, visitors now spend an average of 3.5 times more time with each sculpture using the AI system.

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This measurable shift illustrates the value of conversational AI in strengthening both engagement and the quality of attention paid to artworks.

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Actionable insights to improve mediation strategy

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The system provides Versailles with detailed usage data, including:

• number of users,
• sessions per visitor,
• time spent at each point,
• languages used,
• most frequently asked questions,
• most consulted artworks,
• average interaction duration,
• and more.

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These insights help the institution adjust its mediation content, better understand visitor expectations, and guide innovation strategies with real-world usage data.

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Strong initial results

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Since launch, the experience has seen over 1,000 daily users in the Versailles gardens.

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The initiative has also generated widespread media coverage, with dozens of articles in national and international press, highlighting the unique nature of this AI-powered outdoor cultural mediation.

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Together, these indicators—strong visitor engagement and media visibility—confirm public interest in accessible, well-designed interactive experiences.

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A scalable model for other cultural sites

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This project demonstrates that outdoor visitor experiences can be enhanced through a reliable, autonomous solution—without heavy infrastructure.

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The model can be replicated at a wide range of sites: gardens, archaeological parks, historic districts, or touring exhibitions.

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Ask Mona supports institutions at every step: from content design to technical integration, training, and data analysis.