DCAT — Data Catalog Vocabulary
Overview
DCAT is the W3C standard for describing datasets and data catalogues in RDF (Resource Description Framework), enabling federated data discovery across distributed repositories. Published as a W3C Recommendation (DCAT v1: 2014, DCAT v2: 2020, DCAT v3: 2024), it is the vocabulary that makes data catalogues interoperable: a dataset described with DCAT in Recherche Data Gouv can be harvested and found through the EOSC portal, data.gouv.fr, and other DCAT-compliant catalogues without any manual re-entry.
Core Classes
| Class | Description |
|---|---|
dcat:Dataset | A logical collection of data (e.g. a neuroimaging cohort) |
dcat:Distribution | A specific form/download of a dataset (e.g. a ZIP file, an API endpoint) |
dcat:Catalog | A curated collection of dataset metadata (e.g. Recherche Data Gouv catalogue) |
dcat:DataService | An API or endpoint providing access to data |
DCAT-AP
DCAT-AP is the European Application Profile of DCAT — a specification that adds requirements and recommendations specific to European public sector data. It is the standard for data portals in the EU Open Data Portal and for EOSC.
Connections
- Extends: Dublin Core (builds on DC terms)
- Required by: EOSC (DCAT-AP for cross-portal discovery)