1996–2026: 30th Anniversary of the UNESCO Site "City of Vicenza and the

1996–2026: 30th Anniversary of the UNESCO Site

In 2026 Vicenza celebrates the 30th anniversary of the UNESCO site extension "City of Vicenza and the Palladian Villas in the Veneto." To mark the occasion, the city presents a series of initiatives designed to showcase and activate the Palladian heritage.

When: weekend from 17 to 19 April 2026.

Program highlights

The program features special openings of civic museums and several Palladian villas, free guided walks in the historic centre, and an immersive theatrical itinerary.

• Museums and monuments open: Teatro Olimpico, Palazzo Chiericati Civic Museum, Basilica Palladiana, Palazzo Thiene, Church of Santa Corona, Palladio Museum.
• Villas open (some on a special opening basis): Villa Pisani in Montagnana, Villa Angarano, Villa Forni Cerato, Villa Piovene, Villa Thiene, Villa Trissino in Cricoli. Regular openings include Villa Almerico Capra (La Rotonda), Villa Barbaro in Maser, Villa Badoer (La Badoera), Villa Pojana, Villa Pisani in Lonigo, Villa Caldogno, Villa Godi Malinverni, Villa Foscari (La Malcontenta).
• Guided tours: on 18 and 19 April six guided tours of the historic centre are offered by certified guides. Each tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, is free, limited to 25 participants and requires reservation.
• Immersive theatre: on Sunday 19 April at 11:00 the "Silent Play. Palladio between the lines" immersive route takes place (max 25 participants, approx. 45 minutes). Participation is free but requires prior booking.

How to take part

• Reservations are required for the guided tours and the immersive theatre; admission is free until places are filled.
• For museum tickets and information contact the Tourist Information and Welcome Office (IAT) in Piazza Matteotti, open daily from 9:00 to 17:30.
• The Basilica Palladiana infopoint and ticket office are open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00 (last admission 17:30).

Why attend: the three-day program is an occasion to deepen knowledge of Andrea Palladio’s work, visit major and lesser-known villas within the UNESCO Site, and enjoy guided cultural experiences suitable for a broad public.

Organisers: initiatives promoted by the Municipality of Vicenza in collaboration with villa owners and local associations as part of the 30th-anniversary celebrations of the UNESCO site extension.