National Historic Homes Day in Bologna — 24 May 2026

Sunday 24 May 2026 marks the National Historic Homes Day, an occasion to enter private historic residences and discover local artistic and architectural heritage. The Metropolitan Area of Bologna offers free openings and guided tours across notable palaces and villas.

Sites open and practical details

• Palazzo Boncompagni (via Del Monte 8, Bologna): gardens open free with reservation via www.palazzoboncompagni.it. Palace hours: 10:00–13:00 and 15:30–18:30. A temporary exhibition by Michelangelo Pistoletto is available with a paid guided tour.
• Palazzo Fava Marescotti (via del Cane 9, Bologna): open 10:00–13:00 and 14:30–17:30 (no reservation required for general access). Free guided tours (~30 minutes) for groups up to 25 people at: 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 16:00, 17:00. Booking for guided visits is mandatory through the Associazione Dimore Storiche Italiane portal.
• Palazzo Pepoli Campogrande / Campogrande Concept (Via Castiglione 7, Bologna): free entry 15:30–18:30. Visitors can see frescoed rooms and the Hall of Mirrors; a voluntary fundraising campaign in support of Susan G. Komen is promoted during the day.
• Villa Marana (Castenaso): park and interior spaces will be accessible; the villa houses a collection of Italian Baroque art gathered by Francesco Molinari Pradelli.
• Villa La Palazzina Malvezzi Campeggi (Castel San Pietro): special opening as part of the event (check regional ADSI listings for exact times).
• Villa Certani Vittori Venenti (Vedrana di Budrio): open for the National Historic Homes Day; consult the local programme for details on visiting times and access.
• Atelier of Tullio Vietri (via Saragozza 135, Bologna): open 9:30–13:00 and 14:30–18:30, featuring around 1,500 works by the artist.
• Casa Museo Nena (via del Lavoro 46, Casalecchio di Reno): guided visits scheduled at 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 15:00, 16:00 and 17:00.

Organisation and 2026 theme

The initiative is organised by the Associazione Dimore Storiche Italiane with the Italian Federation of Friends of Museums (FIDAM) and the National Association of Memory Houses. The 2026 theme, "Custodians of the future. A living heritage for shared value", highlights the role of private historic homes in cultural continuity and community life.

Check the Associazione Dimore Storiche Italiane website and the individual site pages for booking procedures and full schedules. Many openings are free, but some guided tours require prior reservation.