The vividness of France’s landscapes, the mysteries of its historic monuments and the panorama of its culture never seize to inspire wonderlusters, artists and explorers. This September, most of the well-known French landmarks and numerous less known cultural attractions will once again be highlighted within European Heritage Days, the country’s favourite autumn festival.

For the 34th year in a row, the masterpieces of French architecture, literature and arts, as well as the country’s numerous cultural monuments, historic sites and urban oases will be observed through a unique European Heritage Days prism. Titled “Youth and Heritage,” this year's theme in France will uncover different cultural and historic contexts in which young people can interact with their heritage. The focus will be on enabling students and pupils to recognise new professional, academic or volunteering opportunities in the field of heritage.

This theme will offer a new perspective on the relationship between youth and heritage, while allowing for an exploration of the well-known French narratives and various cultural sites that are not normally open to public. Like in previous years, the public buildings in Paris such as The President’s Palace and The Palais de l’Elysée Élysée will host their traditional European Heritage Days tours, providing a unique opportunity to get the first-hand knowledge on their histories, architecture and everyday activities.

In addition to these, thousands of other heritage attractions across the country will present their cultural and historic values, celebrating the role of young people in heritage preservation. Historic town halls, remarkable villas and castles, as well as institutions such as theatres, hospitals, schools will present their values and histories, enabling people of different ages to get closer to their heritage.

The 2017 programme will include 17,000 monuments and 26,000 different events to offer a new experience of exploring France. Under the umbrella of the “Youth and Heritage” theme, various guided tours, walks, workshops, exhibitions and many other activities will be held to highlight and strengthen the link between youth and heritage. The events will take place on 16th and 17 September, which will be one of the most exciting weekends of the year to get closer to the glorious history and ever-inspiring culture of France.

More information about the events will soon be available on our portal and on the official website of the Ministry of Culture and Communication of France.