Castles Days 2026: castles and sites open on May 16-17

Castles Days 2026: schedule and sites to visit

The weekend of 16 and 17 May 2026 marks the Castles Days, an event featuring special openings of historic sites throughout Italy. Activities include guided tours, cultural meetings and thematic routes that highlight medieval fortresses, Renaissance walls and fortified towns.

How to join: many events are free while some require reservation or a small fee. Check the organiser's website or contact the individual sites for opening times and booking information before you go.

Sites by area

• North: border castles, defensive walls, panoramic towers and 19th-century fortifications. Examples: Mura Spagnole (Milan), Rocca di Palazzolo sull'Oglio (BS), Palazzo Affaitati (Cremona), Borgo medievale di Finalborgo (SV).
• Center: fortresses and fortified residences in hilly landscapes. Examples: Forte Aurelia (Rome), Fortezza del Girifalco (Cortona, AR), Castello di Pieve del Vescovo (Corciano, PG).
• South and islands: Norman and Aragonese castles and coastal strongholds. Examples: Fortezza di Civitella del Tronto (TE), Castello di Agropoli (SA), Castello di Caccamo (PA), Real Casina di Caccia di Ferdinando III (Bosco della Ficuzza, PA).

Practical tips for visitors

• Check opening hours: some sites have timed entries.
• Be prepared: wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as routes can include climbs or unpaved sections.
• Transport: plan your travel in advance; many locations are easiest to reach by car or local services.
• Reservations: book ahead for guided tours and limited-capacity visits.

Castles Days are an occasion to discover often overlooked monuments that reveal local history and identity. Plan your visit for the weekend of 16-17 May 2026 to take advantage of special openings and gain new insights into Italy's monumental heritage.