European Heritage Days...Doors Are Open!
Experience the historical monuments, places and museums near you
First launched in 1984 by the French Ministry of Culture, the third Sunday in September is the designated day for historical monuments, museums and even private areas across the country to open their doors and allow the public access to places they would not normally be able to experience.
By the year 2000 the event had become so popular that it is now a weekend long event throughout France, the 31st edition of the annual event, Journees du Patrimoine, is due to place tomorrow and Sunday (20th & 21st September). And in fact the idea has since been adopted by many countries throughout Europe (European Heritage Days) and beyond, so that it has almost become a global event!
Entry to the various buildings, monuments and sites that are state run are usually free, however private or public institutions can charge an entry fee, although this will often be discounted due to the nature of the event. This is an amazing opportunity for members of the public to not only perhaps re-new their interest or re-visit certain places, but it offers the unique chance for people to enter buildings and areas that are more often than not out of bounds to the public. For example seeing inside the château's or private residences of some of the most famous and stunning parts of France, or being able to visit the building where Regional archives are housed, and the chance to maybe see the hidden artworks and collections of some of the most famous galleries and museums. Whatever your area of interest there is a Journees du Patrimoine event that will excite and entice you in...
Check out the official website to find the events and places near you.
