Italy opens up more than 400 castles and villas to the public on 21 May

This is part of the National Day of the Italian Historic Houses Association giving the public the chance to access some privately held heritage sites

This Sunday, 21 May, is the National Day of the Italian Historic Houses Association (ADSI) – an event taking place for the 13^th time since its inception. It gives people the chance to visit places that are usually inaccessible to the general public, so if you find yourself in Italy this weekend, take advantage of the opportunity.

More than 400 castles, fortresses, villas, parks, and gardens across Italy - many of which privately owned - will open their doors for free as part of the Giornata Nazionale.

Museo diffuso, or “spread-out museum”

ADSI, the Historic Houses Association, has described the initiative as the country’s largest ‘museo diffuso’, or spread-out museum. The term itself was coined by an architect, Fredi Drugman, and it refers to a close relationship between a territory and the heritage conserved in its museums.

The concept stems from the idea that history is all around us, and not only locked inside dedicated museums and archives. Exploring and discovering local history can stimulate a more active lifestyle and better awareness of one’s surroundings.

This year, ADSI and Photolux Festival are promoting, in collaboration with Italia ETS, a challenge aimed at all Instagram users, with a view to promoting their initiative and local heritage all around. 

To participate, simply publish content (photo, carousel, reel or story as long as it is highlighted) on your Instagram profile using the hashtag #challengeadsi2023 and/or mentioning @dimore_storiche_italiane, @photoluxfest and @weareigersit.

The 25 most representative digital contents of the courtyards, gardens and exteriors of the homes will be the subject of a virtual exhibition accessible on the ADSI and Photolux Festival websites and will be shared on the Instagram accounts of the three promoters. An author selected by the jury will be invited to participate in a special dedicated visit to a historic residence in their city of residence.

You can consult which properties are participating in the National Day by visiting ADSI’s website (also in English). The Association was founded in 1977 with the aim of preserving and promoting historical homes and raising awareness about heritage.