Cortili Aperti 2026 in Apulia: free visits to over 40 historic residences

Date: Sunday, 24 May 2026. Free entry to participating sites.

As part of the XVI National Day of Historic Houses, the regional edition opens more than 40 cultural properties across Apulia: palaces, villas, courtyards, former convents, churches and private residences. The initiative aims to increase public access to often little-known heritage sites and to promote their care and preservation.

The 2026 theme is "Guardians of the future. A living heritage for shared value", highlighting the role of historic homes in community identity and local development.

• Main focus: Lecce and the Salento area, with several openings in the city and nearby towns.
• Examples of Lecce openings: Palazzo Tamborino Cezzi, Palazzo Sambiasi, Palazzo Rollo, Palazzo Protonobilissimi, Palazzo Persona-Taurino (Jewish Museum), Palazzo Marrese, Palazzo Maresgallo, Palazzo Guido, Palazzo Grassi, Palazzo dei Perroni, Palazzo Carrozzini, Palazzo Apostolico Orsini, Palazzetto Palmieri.
• Other regional sites: Villa La Meridiana (Santa Maria di Leuca), Palazzo Granafei (Sternatia), Palazzo Ducale Venturi (Minervino di Lecce), Palazzo Briganti (Gallipoli), Castel di Salve winery (Depressa), Villa Pantaleo (Taranto).

Visits are organised with the support of the regional network of member owners and local collaborators. The list of openings may be updated up to the day of the event: check the official schedule for precise opening hours and visit routes.

Practical tips for visitors:

• Arrive early: many visits run on a first-come or limited-turn basis;
• Verify opening times and meeting points on the official event page before leaving;
• Follow staff instructions and avoid touching furnishings or artworks.

The initiative is also an opportunity to consider the social and economic value of conservation: keeping these sites active helps safeguard an essential part of Apulia's cultural and landscape identity.