European Heritage Days 2012 (29-30 September)

As with every year in September, Italy, along with the other 49 signatory States to the European Cultural Convention, is taking part in the European Heritage Days – a joint action of the Council of Europe and the European Commission.

The Special Superintendency for the Archaeological Heritage of Rome is therefore contributing to this initiative, not only by granting free admission to its museums, monuments and sites, but also by offering special activities such as guided tours, exhibitions and concerts in those of them which are open all year round, as well as allowing the public to visit sites that are usually closed.

The aims of the European Heritage Days are to:

•  raise the awareness of European citizens of the richness and cultural diversity of Europe;
• create a climate in which the appreciation of the rich mosaic of European cultures is stimulated;
• counter racism and xenophobia and encourage greater tolerance in Europe and beyond the national borders;
• inform the public and the political authorities about the need to protect cultural heritage against new threats;
• invite Europe to respond to the social, political and economic challenges it faces.