International Day for Monuments and Sites: Italy and Costa Rica

International Day for Monuments and Sites: Italy and Costa Rica Collaborate on UNESCO Heritage

The International Day for Monuments and Sites (World Heritage Day), observed on April 18 and promoted by ICOMOS and UNESCO, encourages reflection on the value of cultural heritage and its conservation. In 2026, cultural exchange between Italy and Costa Rica is strengthened through events focused on safeguarding both inscribed and non-inscribed cultural assets.

Activities take place during the week from 13 to 18 April 2026 and include programs for primary schools and specialist meetings for heritage professionals. The University of Pavia contributes with interventions on pedagogical approaches and architectural restoration.

• 13 April 2026 – Kick-off with the international educational project “Reconéctate con tu cultura”, aimed at primary schools to foster local heritage awareness and valuation.
• 15 April 2026 – A keynote lecture for professionals on “The value of declared and undeclared cultural heritage”, emphasizing protection strategies and humanistic values in conservation.
• 18 April 2026 – Official World Heritage Day with widespread awareness-raising activities highlighting the role of UNESCO Sites.

Institutional and academic representatives participate to promote educational and professional approaches that enhance local identities and Italy's UNESCO Sites. For organizers and visitors, this week offers opportunities to:

• develop educational paths for schools and families;
• create networks of local professionals for shared conservation projects;
• use digital resources and training programs to interpret Italy's UNESCO Sites.

Practical tips: check updated programs on the institutional websites of the ministries and partner organizations, contact local site authorities for on-site initiatives, and include educational activities when planning guided visits to UNESCO Sites in Italy.