European Heritage Days - 17 and 18 September 2016

The European Heritage Days will take place on 17 and 18 September 2016, for the 33rd year running. This not to be missed event, which takes place every September as everybody heads back to school and work after the summer break, is organized in France by the Ministry of Culture and Communication. During these two days, numerous French monuments and cultural venues will open their doors, giving visitors the opportunity to take part in free tours and events. This is the perfect opportunity not only to gain an understanding of, and become acquainted with, heritage, but also to visit venues which are not usually open to the public!

In 2016, the European Heritage Days represent: 17 000 venues open to the public, 26 000 events in 50 participating European countries as well as a theme, “Heritage and Citizenship”, being given pride of place. This is a way of showcasing the emblematic monuments which shaped citizenship.

Churches, castles, museums, banks, prefectures, law courts, chambers of commerce, town halls, private residences, etc. All these venues can be visited on 17 and 18 September 2016 throughout France. You will also be able to see behind the scenes of numerous unusual places such as the head offices of television stations, former prisons, works and factories, the Paris transport authority: the RATP, etc.

In Paris, the governing authorities are also playing their part. You will be able to stroll around the quarters of the President of the Republic as the Elysée Palace is opening its doors to visitors. You will also be able to visit the Luxembourg Palace (seat of the French Senate) and even the Hôtel de Matignon (official residence of the French Prime Minister).

Watch the map of the events scheduled during the European Heritage Days and read this article from “Sortir à Paris” which has picked out some visits for you.