Heritage Day in Germany – 12 September 2010

On the second Sunday in September every year, towns around Germany observe Heritage Day.  Historical buildings and monuments around Germany, which are normally closed or rarely accessible to the public, will open their doors for a journey back in time.

Heritage Day is to raise public awareness of the importance of cultural heritage and build awareness for the preservation of historical monuments.

The theme for this year’s Heritage Day on 12 September 2010 is ‘Culture in motion – travel, trade and transport’. It looks at the impact of migrant workers and merchants, the emergence of Germany’s transport network and new forms of mobility. These outside influences help in shaping the German culture and leave a legacy of historical architecture.

The Heritage Open Day brings history to life in a unique way. Visitors can take specialist guided tours with monument curators, who will give a real insight into what their work involves. Archaeologists, restorers and artisans demonstrate their working methods and tools of trade and point out details that would otherwise remain invisible to the untrained eye. A programme of national events began in early August.

The Deutsche Stiftung Denkmalschutz website is in German only, but you can use the search function  to find out where the historical sites are by keying in the name of the town you’re visiting (http://tag-des-offenen-denkmals.de/programm/).  Alternatively, email Deutsche Stiftung Denkmalschutz at info@denkmalschutz.de.

Contact:
Deutsche Stiftung Denkmalschutz
Koblenzer Straße 75
53177 Bonn
Tel.: +49 (0)228 957380
info@denkmalschutz.de
www.tag-des-offenen-denkmals.de

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