Debrecen4U
September 18, 2025
A Celebration That Connects Us All – European Heritage Days
European Heritage Days (EHD) is a Europe-wide cultural event by the Council of Europe and the European Commission that promotes awareness and appreciation of Europe’s common cultural heritage through public events.
Milestones that shaped the European Heritage Days
- – In 1984, France launched a unique initiative called Historic Monuments Open Day with the aim of opening historic buildings that are usually closed to the public would open their doors for a weekend and welcome curious visitors.
- – In 1985 at a European conference in Granada, France proposed an international initiative for the project.
- – In 1991 the initiative was united by the Council of Europe and the EU as European Heritage Days (EHDs).
- – In 1999 the EU officially joined the EHDs, and a common slogan, “Europe, a Common Heritage,” was introduced.
European Heritage Days Today
European Heritage Days is a fantastic initiative that takes place across various countries in Europe each September. The EHDs events, under the slogan “Europe, a common heritage”, involve: the 50 countries party to the European Cultural Convention, around 20 million of visitors per year, more than 70,000 events and over 30,000 monuments and sites (included some normally closed to the public).
The event often includes a special theme, focusing on architecture, industrial heritage, or other aspects of cultural history. From fascinating architecture to hidden gems, all are open for exploration!
European Heritage Days 2025 has the theme “Heritage and Architecture: Windows to the Past, Doors to the Future,” celebrating Europe’s built environment with open days, tours, and events focusing on the artistic, historical, and cultural significance of architectural styles from the past to the present.
Cultural Heritage Days in Hungary (Kulturális Örökség Napja)
The event is also organized annually in Hungary, celebrating Hungary’s rich architectural, historical, and cultural legacy.
As mentioned, in 1984, a unique initiative was launched in France under the title of Historic Monuments Open Day with the aim of opening the doors of historic buildings that are usually closed to the public for a weekend and welcoming curious visitors.
In Hungary, in 1999, the Ministry of National Cultural Heritage entrusted the Department of International and Social Relations of the then National Monument Protection Office to organize the event. This coordinating work has been ongoing ever since, and the owners, operators, and managers of the buildings undertake year after year to make their valuable, beautiful buildings and collections accessible to the public.
What Happens During the Event?
- Free access to historic buildings and monuments.
- Guided tours, often led by historians, architects, or local experts.
- Free, special exhibitions, lectures, and interactive programs.
- Family-friendly activities, including crafts, storytelling, and games.
- Opportunities to visit hidden or rarely accessible places, such as attics, cellars, or private estates, and more!
Debrecen also actively participates with programs
The city offers a diverse range of activities that invite locals and visitors to explore the city’s hidden treasures and historical narratives with a unique opportunity to connect with Debrecen’s past and appreciate its cultural richness in a hands-on, engaging way.
If you’re interested in attending any of the events in Debrecen or Hungary, be sure to check the official schedule for specific dates and details here: https://oroksegnapok.gov.hu/
Cultural Heritage Days remind us that history isn’t just found in books or behind museum glass—it lives in the streets, buildings, traditions, and stories. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this journey—explore, learn, and celebrate Hungary’s living heritage on September 20 and 21!
Source:europeanheritagedays.com, oroksegnapok.gov.hu, dehir.hu, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_Heritage_Days, youth.europa.eu/| Photo credit:Facebook Debrecen városa
