European Heritage Days — 43rd edition

Culture · Heritage · Across town

On 19 and 20 September, the doors you walk past all year open up. Villas, the lighthouse, the workings of the town: the one weekend when you visit Biarritz from the inside. This year, photography takes centre stage.

It is one of the most widely followed cultural events in France, and one of the few that benefits residents as much as visitors. The principle has not changed since 1984: push open the doors of places normally closed, free or at reduced rates.

Two themes, one of them very local

This 43rd edition highlights the heritage of photography, marking the bicentenary of its invention, and heritage at risk. The first is a gift in a town whose visual history — from the first imperial villas to the seaside archives — is unusually well documented.

The local tip

The detailed programme usually appears in early September: pick two or three sites in advance and book what can be booked, as guided tours of private properties go within hours. A note for parents: Friday 18 September is reserved for school groups.

The one weekend when you visit your own town.

The editorial team
ici Biarritz