European Heritage Days 2026 has begun, with cultural events planned across more than 50 European countries from September through early October.
This year’s theme, “Heritage at Risk: Revive, Resist, Reimagine,” focuses on the protection of endangered heritage and its preservation for future generations. Events will bring communities and the public together to examine how threatened cultural heritage can be safeguarded and passed on.
The European Commission and the Council of Europe are co-founders of the initiative. Building on the Faro Convention, which recognises the value of cultural heritage to society, European Heritage Days emphasise the role of communities in identifying, protecting and transmitting heritage.
Since 1999, participating countries have organised annual programmes around a specific theme, giving people of all ages and interests opportunities to explore the history of communities and places that have contributed to Europe’s cultural heritage.
Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport Glenn Micallef said European Heritage Days highlight Europe’s distinctive and diverse cultural identity.
“This year’s theme reminds us that heritage threatened by war, climate change, disasters or neglect needs active protection and that communities have a crucial role in keeping it alive for future generations,” Micallef said.
Events range from heritage tours to digital experiences
The programme includes guided heritage tours, exhibitions, workshops, performances and digital experiences.
Among the examples are visits exploring the tradition of the Saints’ Guard in Croatia, an exploration of industrial heritage at a former brewery in Belgium, and exhibitions featuring more than 1,000 minerals and fossils in the French Ardennes.
