Virtual Accessibility in European Cultural Heritage: Analysis of the Major Tourist Destinations Websites

Abstract

In this article, it is evaluated the problem of accessibility to digital information on several websites, and its importance to the promotion of cultural heritage on European countries. The main objective is to understand how institutional web content related to European Cultural Heritage meets the accessibility requirements of the World Consortium Web Content Accessibility Guidelines WCAG 2.0. Through the analysis of fourteen European institutional cultural heritage websites, it was possible to identify strengths, weakness and improvements of each one, from the perspective of any user and those who have, permanently or temporary, limitations. The final analysis revealed several weaknesses that affect the interest and motivations of tourists and other users regarding the diversified cultural heritage and cultural heritage products. Several governmental institutions need a greater effort to make universal accessibility a reality. Failing to comply with the basic principles of universal accessibility will negatively affect the sustainability of cultural goods.