The European Heritage Days, scheduled for September 16th and 17th, 2023 in Paris, are, as every year, an unmissable cultural event. For this 40th edition, the two highlighted themes are “Living Heritage” and “Sports Heritage".
The theme of “Living Heritage” offers a unique opportunity to discover and celebrate practices, knowledge, and skills passed down from generation to generation that are part of our cultural identity. This exploration takes visitors into the heart of traditional artisan trades, knowledge related to nature and the universe, as well as elements of cultural heritage such as songs, dances, rituals, and popular festivals. The relevance of this theme is even more significant as it coincides with the 20th anniversary of the UNESCO Convention on Intangible Cultural Heritage. This celebration provides a unique occasion to spotlight these often overlooked cultural treasures, which are essential to our collective identity.
The second theme, “Sports Heritage,” celebrates Paris's sports legacy within the context of the Cultural Olympiad. Since the early 20th century, sports have gained a significant place in our culture, and this theme pays tribute to the sites, athletes, and historic moments that have shaped Paris' sports history. Special guided tours will lead participants through iconic sports venues, allowing them to relive significant moments and understand the significance of sports in our society. With the approach of the 2024 Olympics, it's the perfect time to gain a deeper understanding of our beautiful capital's sports culture.
The event will commence on September 15th with the “Lift Your Eyes!” initiative, in partnership with the Ministry of National Education and Youth. Students will have the opportunity to discover the heritage of their region, learn its history, and become aware of the importance of its preservation and valorization. This initiative aims to instill respect and a desire to learn about French cultural and historical heritage from a young age. The previous year, over 80 experiences were specially designed to attract young people and offer them privileged access to cultural events.
The event's coordination is ensured on a national level by the Ministry of Culture and on a regional level by the Regional Directorates of Cultural Affairs. The event schedule, accessible on the digital platform Openagenda, lists all the planned activities for the weekend.
The European Heritage Days 2023 in Paris promise to be a privileged moment to celebrate the living and sports heritage of the city by delving deep into our cultural identity. From traditional artisan trades to historic sports moments, including songs and dances, these days invite us to reflect on the similarities between our social and cultural identity and our personal identity. Whether young or of more advanced age, these days offer an exceptional opportunity to immerse ourselves in the history and richness of our heritage, better comprehend its role in our society, and actively participate in its preservation for future generations.
The entire team at the Hotel Moderniste is at your disposal for any requests or information. Enjoy your discovery!