Many of Northern Ireland’s landmarks will open in a celebration of cultural and built heritage.
Northern Ireland announced its programme for the European Heritage Days project, with many of its fascinating landmarks opening for free to the public.
In-person events will take place on the weekend of 9-10 September, while online events will run for the entire week commencing 4 September.
European Heritage Days – take place annually in September
The European Heritage Days programme was launched in 1985 by the Council of Europe. The European Union became involved in 1999, and it has since been a joint initiative between the two organisations.
The programme attracts upwards of 200 million visitors annually. It claims to generate “the greatest value, euro for euro, of any European cultural project”.
Each September, participating nations allow free and open access to monuments, landmarks, and other sites of importance, allowing citizens the chance to learn about the country’s cultural heritage.
The European Heritage Days project aims to raise awareness of the continent’s cultural diversity. In doing so, it hopes both to counter discrimination and to highlight the importance of cultural heritage to local people and politicians.
NI programme for European Heritage Days revealed – in-person events across NI
The programme for European Heritage Days in Northern Ireland will take place over the weekend of 9-10 September. The Northern Irish events aim to combine cultural heritage and built heritage.
A major Belfast highlight is a tour of the recently redeveloped Templemore Baths, the sole remaining Victorian baths in Ireland. The baths date back to 1893, when they provided washing facilities for the people of east Belfast.
Other exciting Belfast events include a behind-the-scenes look at Northern Ireland’s oldest surviving cinema, the Strand, and an archaeology-led walk of west Belfast’s Divis and Black Mountain in association with the National Trust.
Elsewhere, there are guided tours available of Magherafelt’s Bridewell Gaol and an exploration of Irish mythology through poetry and song at Kilclief Castle in County Down, among a plethora of other interesting events.
Online events – get a remote taste of the European Heritage Days events
Those unable to attend the in-person events of the European Heritage Days programme can avail of online events from 4 to 10 September.
An online video delves into the historical features of County Down’s Laurel Cottage. The listed cottage dates back to 1672 and comprises its original cruck truss, which gives it its unique structure.
Another video gives viewers a fascinating insight into the coastguard boathouse on Belfast Lough in Whiteabbey, County Antrim.
Note that, while free, booking is required for some events during the European Heritage Days programme. Find information and the full programme here.
