About
Theme
OUR LANDSCAPE, OUR LEGACY
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Cecilia Paredes,
Attachée, urban.brussels
A little history of European Heritage Days
The Heritage Days are part of the European Heritage Days, an initiative launched in France in 1984 and organised in Belgium since 1989. Today, 49 signatories to the European Cultural Convention take part in what has become Europe's largest heritage event. Throughout the weekends in September, thousands of monuments, heritage sites and exceptional places – many of which are usually closed to the public – open their doors to visitors. This offers everyone the opportunity to discover our shared cultural heritage and encourages people to help preserve it for future generations. Every year, the Heritage Days attract thousands of visitors and strengthen public appreciation of heritage in all its forms.
In other regions
The weekend preceding the Heritage Days in the Brussels Capital Region, Flanders and Wallonia invite you to explore their heritage.
Wallonia, on 12th and 13th September
In Wallonia, on 13th and 14th September, the 38th edition of the Heritage Days marks the grand finale of Heritage in the Spotlight, a summer-long celebration that begins with the European Archaeology Days and invites visitors to explore remarkable heritage sites throughout the season. Although there is no central theme in 2026, special attention is given to exceptional monuments and places that are rarely open to the public.
www.journeesdupatrimoine.be
Flanders, 13 September
On 13 September 2026, Open Heritage Day Flanders celebrates its 38th edition under the theme 'In Good Hands'. This year's programme highlights the people and practices dedicated to preserving, maintaining and giving new life to our heritage. Visitors will discover how heritage is protected, managed and prepared for the future. Kortrijk, the host city, showcases its rich history alongside its dynamic spirit of renewal. The focus is not only on heritage itself, but also on the people who care for it.
http://www.openmonumentendag.be