In situ interpretation and ex situ museum display of geology. New opportunities for a geoheritage based dialogue?

Abstract

This article attempts to address the historical and current links existing between the conceptions gouverning the in situ approach of geology and the ex situ musealisation of geological collections, particularly from their effects on interpretation and mediation. Based on the assumption that these two fields of reflection have gradually become autonomous, the study of the current trends in the presentation of the ex situ collections in European museums will raise the opportunities offered to them by the concept of geoheritage, particularly highlighted on the in situ spots, for the conception of imaginative solutions which can better interest the public to the geological phenomena. Keywords: Geoheritage, Museums, Geological collections, Interpretation, Musealisation