Why you shouldn’t miss the European Heritage Days in Paris

A time to celebrate the cultural and patrimonial heritage of the old continent while paying attention to its conservation for present and future generations.

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What to expect for the European Heritage Days 2024

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The event, which happens each year in September, has been quite popular among Europeans over the years, with up to 20 million visitors! Around 70 000 events are held across the participating countries, making it one of Europe's most significant annual cultural events. 

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European citizens (and others 😉) can enjoy free visits, guided tours, unique activities, and entertainment in sites and monuments usually closed to the public, such as ministries, embassies, museums, and all the great treasures of each country. Private buildings also participate, opening their 'backstages' and private collections. For instance, the Louvre is opening its workshops!

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The visits are generally free of charge, but for the prized buildings, you have to make sure to book in advance if you don't want to queue for hours.

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This year the European Heritage Days 2022 shines a spotlight on "Sustainable Heritage." In a time of worry due to climate change, European countries want to showcase ideas and ways to maintain our cultural and environmental heritage.

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THE PERFECT ACTIVITY FOR KIDS AND FAMILIES

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Actually, no matter who you go with, family, friends, partner, or even on your own, this cultural event is a must if you visit France or any other European country during that period.

Lots of activities and secrets are shared, and it's an excellent way to learn more about the history and culture of the country you are in, and locals love it!

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JOURNÉE DU PATRIMOINE, OR HOW THE EUROPEAN HERITAGE DAYS STARTED

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Believe it or not, the event started in France in 1984, where it is still the most popular nowadays, with 12 million visitors in this country alone. Back then, the French Ministery of Culture, led by Jack Lang, decided to create the Journée portes ouvertes dans les monuments historiques ("Open Days of Historical Monuments") in an attempt to share the hidden gems and extraordinary richness of the country, inaccessible otherwise to the general public.

The event was well received by the french, who felt like it was only right for them to be able to access the objects that belonged to the nation.

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The following year, at the second conference of the Council of Europe, The French Minister of Culture suggested making it a yearly European event. The movement caught up fast; by 2010, 50 countries joined the European Heritage Days.

The event is now a joint action of the Council of Europe and the European Commission.

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TOP THINGS TO DO IN PARIS THIS WEEKEND

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This year, the 39th edition of the "Journée Européenne du Patrimoine" (European Heritage Days in french) is held on the weekend of the 17th and 18th of September. The common theme will be celebrated with over 17 000 sites participating. A great diversity of french monuments are opening their doors in 2022.

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The most requested visit in Paris is probably the tour of the Elysée, home to the french president. It is the only time of the year when the general public can enter this iconic and highly protected palace in the center of Paris and is highly protected. The free tickets are already sold out a month in advance, just like each year.

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But don't worry, even if you don't have tickets, I suggest you visit some ministries or embassies that usually don't attract big crowds but are always a good idea to discover hidden treasures and beautiful architecture. It's also an excellent opportunity to learn more about the french political system if you are into that.

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WHAT WILL THE DAYIN TEAM DO THIS WEEKEND?

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We have managed to secure tickets to the Hôtel de Ville! It’s the city hall, and there will be artisans showing us their craftsmanship. From stone carving to flower making, to tapestry making, to watchmaking… It will be a great way to discover less-known jobs in charge of restoring our patrimony! We’ll share with you the secrets of that day in a video coming out soon!

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