European Heritage Days (Heritage Week in Europe)
Introduction
Every year millions of Europeans visit historical monuments and sites throughout Europe on European Heritage Days. These are a joint initiative of the Council of Europe and the European Union in which over forty countries participate each year. The main aim of European Heritage Days are to promote awareness of our built, natural and cultural heritage and to promote Europe’s common cultural heritage.
In Ireland we celebrate European Heritage Days with a full week of events throughout National Heritage Week.
National Heritage Week 2011 will run from the 20th to the 28th of August. The Week is co-ordinated by the Heritage Council with support from Fáilte Ireland.
What is Heritage Week?
Each year many national and hundreds of local community organisations participate by organising events throughout the country. There is something to appeal to almost everyone and the main aim is to build awareness of our built, natural and cultural heritage thereby encouraging its conservation and preservation.
What’s On?
There is something taking place in every county and most activities are free of charge or offer great value for money. Over 1000 events take place nationwide during the Week and everyone is encouraged to get involved. Activities range from fairs, night-time bat walks, wildlife tours and lectures to music recitals, historical re-enactments, and outdoor activities. Many heritage sites and stately homes will offer free admission or special concessions.
To view whats on during National Heritage Week click here
