What is Art Nouveau Week 2026

Art Nouveau Week is a national initiative that highlights Liberty-style heritage in architecture, decorative arts and urban design. The 2026 edition centers on the relationship between the movement and the sea, exploring coastal influences on Art Nouveau forms.

Dates and inauguration

The event runs from 8 to 14 July 2026, with an official opening in Rimini. The ribbon-cutting will take place at the historic Villa Embassy, a landmark of the region's Liberty era. A commemorative stamp issued by the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy will be presented to acknowledge the significance of Italy's Liberty heritage.

Program and special openings

The schedule includes conferences, exhibitions, workshops and thematic experiences, together with guided visits to historic sites. Key figures:

• Over 700 events including tours, conferences and exhibitions;
• More than 1,500 special openings of villas, historic homes, palaces, hotels and gardens;
• 230 certified tour guides organizing routes;
• Activities staged across hundreds of Italian towns and coordinated international events.

Guided visits to monuments and exclusive routes

Visits focus on palaces, villas and monumental complexes that are often closed to the public. Routes last from one to three hours and grant access to interiors and collections usually unavailable, with expert commentary on history, architecture and symbolism.

• City walks highlighting Liberty façades and decorative details;
• Themed tours on applied arts and Art Nouveau advertising posters;
• Guided visits to monumental cemeteries exploring funerary art from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Exhibitions, conferences and insights

The week features major shows (including international collaborations) and academic sessions with scholars and specialists. Planned highlights include exhibitions on advertising posters, Tiffany works and ceramics inspired by marine motifs.

Related events and notable dates

In addition to the main week, connected events are scheduled such as exclusive tours (for example a Gaudí-themed itinerary on 11–12 July) and the World Art Nouveau Day on 10 June 2026, featuring talks and program launches.

How to take part

Check the official program or local organizers for schedules, meeting points and booking rules. Many tours require advance reservation and may include fees for access to restricted interiors.

Why visit

Art Nouveau Week offers a rare chance to experience Liberty monuments in depth: access lesser-known sites, learn about the movement's urban impact and see how Art Nouveau shaped architecture, decorative arts and coastal identities.