International Museum Day 2026: events and visits at monuments

18 May 2026 marks International Museum Day, dedicated to promoting museums, monuments and historic palaces as active and inclusive cultural spaces. Many Italian cities will host special openings, guided tours, seminars and activities for all ages.

Main events by city

• Bologna – The University Museum System runs a week of activities at Palazzo Poggi Museum and the Botanical Garden and Herbarium from 16 to 24 May 2026, with tours and workshops for adults and families. On 18 May numerous city museum venues join with dedicated events.
• Parma – The Museum of Natural History and Historiography opens on 18 May from 10:00 to 16:00 with on-site talks; free entry but online registration required.
• Pisa – The Museum of Pathological Anatomy offers a seminar on saints' relics on 18 May at 17:00 and a visit to the paleopathology collection (booking required by 13:00 the same day). At the Botanical Garden and Museum the Fi/oTO 2026 photography prize award is scheduled at 15:00.
• Rome and Castelli Romani – At Castel Gandolfo the Papal Palace opens areas usually closed to the public; Rome’s civic museums plan guided tours and workshops at key sites such as the Capitoline Museums, Ara Pacis and Centrale Montemartini.

Evening events and practical notes

The Day is linked to the European Night of Museums, set for 23 May 2026, when many venues stay open late with free or symbolic admission. To participate, we recommend:

• Checking hours and access rules on each museum’s official website.
• Booking in advance when required: some events and workshops require prior registration.
• Using public transport or walking, and leaving cars in designated parking areas where available.

Why visit

This day is a chance to discover permanent collections, enter spaces normally closed to visitors and take part in educational activities that bring the history of monuments and historic buildings to life.

Location example

One local listing notes: Via dei Macelli, 56126 Pisa (coordinates: 43.7165438, 10.38996). Check the specific museum page for exact address and directions.