Croeso I Drefynwy, Tref Wicipedia Gyntaf y Byd
(Welcome to Monmouth, World's First Wikipedia Town)
(Welcome to Monmouth, World's First Wikipedia Town)
Many have noticed the QR (Quick Reference) codes that have popped up everywhere from magazine ads to cereal boxes. QRpedia uses these codes to directly link the user to the corresponding Wikipedia article in their language. This web based system was first unveiled in April 2011 and is freely reusable under the MIT License.
How will this change our world? Well, the small but beautiful town of Monmouth in Wales has developed a unique (for now) idea. By utilizing this system they are creating QR codes for every notable place, person, plant, etc in town mounted on small ceramic plaques or clear window stickers depending on the location. These links bring visitors to virtual tours, photos, and more information than could possible be displayed on a physical sign. By using a color coded QR they are easily distinguishable from other individual's codes. For instance, blue QR codes indicate Heritage Trail Sites.
Over 1,000 codes were up and on display by the official launch date of May 19, 2012. It is believed that by the time the project nears completion information will be accessible to the visitor in 250 languages. To facilitate its use, the Monmouthshire County Council installed free town wide Wi-Fi.The banner designed by Dilly Boase (see above) depicts the town and the active, energetic atmosphere they predict will result from this project. Monmouth was recently named the seventh best town for archaeology in Britain (Council for British Archaeology). Most Americans may recognize it more from the Doctor Who series filmed here (2008,2011)
Photo: The ceramic QRpedia plaque for the River Wye on the Wye Bridge
