The sound of Villa Molin: An accessible itinerary for people with visual impairment

In contemporary society, the relationship between accessibility and cultural heritage remains challenging. In fact, people with disabilities, particularly those with visual impairments, encounter significant barriers in cultural environments. This thesis investigates the challenge mentioned earlier, focusing on Villa Molin, a Venetian villa designed by Vincenzo Scamozzi in 1597, as a case study to explore different solutions for improving the fruition of cultural heritage. The aim of this research is to analyze the accessibility methods currently used by cultural institutions, evaluate their effectiveness, and propose as well as test new approaches designed specifically for the villa. The focal point of this study is the development of an interactive prototype that converts text into audio, with a more accessible language to enhance inclusivity. This prototype aims to enhance the usability of the villa’s environment by narrating the story of its frescos and related legends, allowing visually impaired visitors to fully immerse themselves in the experience. This thesis will serve as an initial step in research, aiming to raise further questions and inspire additional studies in the field.