Paris, August 17, 2026 – The European Heritage Days are set to return on Saturday, September 19, and Sunday, September 20, 2026, offering a unique opportunity for the public to discover the historical and architectural richness of France. This year, a particular focus will be placed on Parisian high schools and higher education institutions, which will open their doors for exclusive visits, guided tours, and various activities.
A Glimpse into Prestigious Educational Institutions
Every September, the European Heritage Days provide an unmissable event in Paris and the Île-de-France region. This 43rd edition promises hundreds of visits, activities, and animations designed to showcase heritage from a new perspective. Many places that are typically closed to the public throughout the year will open their doors especially for these two days, offering exclusive and sometimes unprecedented guided tours. This includes some of Paris’s most renowned high schools and higher education institutions.
These establishments, usually accessible only to their students, teachers, and staff, will invite visitors on September 19 and 20 to explore their architecture, history, and rich heritage during exceptional tours. With their impressive buildings, richly decorated rooms, and the unique atmosphere found in these prestigious institutions, the grand high schools and university campuses of Paris will allow visitors to admire classrooms, halls, and staircases ordinarily reserved for those privileged enough to study there.
Featured Educational Institutions and Programs:
- National Institute of Heritage (Aubervilliers, 93): Discover an essential French cultural institution and an atypical building. Open house on September 19, 2026.
- École Alsacienne (Paris): This school will exceptionally open its doors for the European Heritage Days 2026.
- Adolphe-Chérioux Departmental Estate (Vitry-sur-Seine): An former orphanage transformed into a vast educational campus, revealing nearly a century of history.
- Chaptal High School (Paris, 8th arrondissement): Free visit of this high school.
- National Superior School of Architecture Paris-Malaquais: Located on the site of the École des Beaux-Arts, it will unveil its program.
- Collège de France (Paris): Explore 2,000 years of history through visits.
- Sorbonne University (Paris): Various events around this historical and cultural monument.
- Janson-de-Sailly High School (Paris, 16th arrondissement): Known for its preparatory classes.
- Jacques Decour High School (Paris, 9th arrondissement): Open to the public for this special weekend.
- Voltaire High School (Paris): Free guided tours on Saturday, September 19, 2026.
- Henri IV High School (Paris): Discover this mythical institution, classified as a historical monument, and its medieval treasures.
- National Institute of Public Service (former ENA) (Paris): Visit one of Paris’s grand schools.
- Sorbonne University – Pierre and Marie Curie Campus: Special program revealing its secrets.
The European Heritage Days are an opportunity to delve into the history of these institutions, understand their role in French society, and appreciate their architectural beauty. Visitors can expect to be transported through time, exploring spaces where generations of students have been educated and where significant historical events have unfolded.
Practical Information for Visitors:
The event is scheduled for September 19 and 20, 2026. All visits are free of charge. Indicative schedules will be provided, but visitors are advised to contact the respective institutions to confirm opening hours and specific program details. The event is designed to be accessible to all, offering a unique cultural experience for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the rich heritage of Paris.
In addition to these educational sites, the European Heritage Days will feature a wide array of other attractions across Paris and the Île-de-France region, including major institutions, fashion and luxury houses, castles, museums, historical monuments, churches, and Art Deco buildings. The event also includes themed tours focusing on music, aviation, military history, craftsmanship, and culinary delights.
This annual event continues to be a cornerstone of cultural life, allowing both residents and tourists to engage with the past and appreciate the enduring legacy of French heritage.
