European Heritage Days 2026 programs announced in Poland

The 2026 edition of European Heritage Days will feature various cultural programs in Poland, centered around the theme ‘Future of the Past. Heritage at Risk.’ This theme focuses on the challenges of protecting cultural heritage amidst environmental, social, and technological changes, emphasizing the preservation of both monuments and living traditions.

In Chmielnik, the Świętokrzyski Sztetl Educational and Museum Center will offer free admission on September 22, 2026. The program includes an ‘Eco-walk following the traces of history and nature of Chmielnik,’ a guided tour connecting local history with the natural environment.

In Szydłowiec, the Museum of Folk Musical Instruments will provide free entry to all permanent exhibitions on September 19 and 20, 2026. The museum will host a popular science meeting titled ‘Builders of Folk Musical Instruments’ on September 20, which explores the history and continuation of traditional instrument making in Poland. Additionally, short documentary films about contemporary folk instrument makers will be screened at the Radziwiłł Castle in Sienia.