Craving to break the routine and fuel your curiosity? On September 19–20, 2026, aim for the 43rd edition of the Journées du Patrimoine! All weekend long, history steps out of its walls and extends a hand: museums, castles, historic monuments, institutions … places sometimes closed to the public will open exceptionally, for free, for a grand, immersive discovery. The perfect chance to see the region in a new light!
European Heritage Days 2026: must-see openings and exceptional tours not to be missed in Paris
Les Journées du Patrimoine 2026 à Paris, c’est aussi l’occasion de découvrir des lieux habituellement fermés au public. Here’s the list of sites that will open their doors to the public specially for this weekend of September 19–20, 2026. [Read more]
Ahead of the event, the City of Paris’s archaeological reserves, tucked away in the 18th arrondissement, will open their behind‑the‑scenes world to the public for one day only on Friday, September 18. Located near the Porte de la Chapelle, these 800 m² hold a veritable treasure trove of discoveries—hundreds of thousands of objects? No, several thousand items, neatly sorted by material: stone, glass, metal, ceramics, bone. Behind this meticulous setup is a team of enthusiasts: five archaeologists, an archaeogeographer and a restorer, carrying on the mission of the Vieux Paris Commission, founded in 1897 to safeguard the capital’s heritage. There you’ll find shelves brimming with 6,000 numbered boxes containing bronze coins, ceramic fragments, human remains (the majority), animal bones... all dug straight from the bowels of Paris.
The archaeological treasures of Paris are unveiled!
### During a guided tour, discover the work carried out by researchers after an excavation and meet Paris's archaeological heritage up close!
Nestled in the 18th arrondissement, the City of Paris's archaeological reserves cover 800 square meters and preserve several thousand objects, stored by their size and material: stone, ceramic, bone, metal, glass, etc.
Participation conditions: Limited to 19 participants — advance registration required | Free — https://www.paris.fr/evenements/jep-2026-les-reserves-archeologiques-de-paris-se-devoilent-113238
Schedules: Friday, September 18, 2026 — 10:00–11:00, 11:00–12:00, 13:00–14:00, 14:00–15:00
A dive into the past not to be missed!
Dates and Opening Time
On September 18, 2026
Location
City of Paris Archaeological Reserves
11 Rue du Pré
75018 Paris 18
Route planner
Access
Metro 12 Porte de la Chapelle
Prices
Free
Booking
www.paris.fr
More information
The ticketing link will go live in the first half of September.
European Heritage Days 2026: must-see openings and exceptional tours not to be missed in Paris
