Reflecting on the Europeana Data Model

We describe some issues arising while using Europeana, and analyze some features of the Europeana Data Model (EDM), starting from the rationale of the project. Some aspects of the theoretical model, derived mostly from the mapping between the provided Cultural Heritage Object (CHO) and the EDM, prevent useful results in users’ queries. The concept of media type, the multilayer description and the relation between roles and values are some issues about which we reflected. The aim of Europeana to make records available as Linked Open Data on the Web could require moreover a redefinition of the implementation techniques.