FAI Spring Days 2026: special openings in the Madonie and across Sicily

FAI Spring Days 2026: special openings in the Madonie and across Sicily

On Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 March 2026 the nationwide initiative to showcase cultural and landscape heritage returns. In Sicily 65 sites will be open with free-contribution visits; several openings are concentrated in the Madonie mountains and are led by volunteers and local students.

Sites open in the Madonie

• Castello dei Ventimiglia – Civic Museum, Castelbuono: the castle on San Pietro hill is the historical core of the town. Students from Liceo Failla Tedaldi will guide visitors through the castle's rooms. Hours: Sat 21 Mar 9:30–18:00 (last entry 17:30); Sun 22 Mar 9:30–18:00 (last entry 17:30).
• Francesco Minà Palumbo Natural History Museum, Castelbuono: located in the former convent of S. Francesco, it houses natural history collections and a historic library. Hours: Sat 21 Mar 9:00–13:00 / 15:00–19:00 (last entry 18:30); Sun 22 Mar 9:00–13:00 and 15:00–19:00 (last entry 18:30).

Other notable openings in Sicily

• Palermo – Porta Nuova and the Royal Stables of Palazzo dei Normanni: exceptional access to panoramic terraces, the Garibaldi Hall and the restored Victory sculpture; specific accessibility solutions are planned, including virtual visits and tactile models.
• Catania – Cryptoportico of Giardino Bellini: a captivating underground area of the city, open for guided tours.

Participation and purpose

Visits are organized with a free contribution: donations and memberships collected during the event fund conservation, restoration projects and the enhancement of heritage sites. The initiative engages volunteers, institutions and schools; the "Apprentice Guides" (students trained to present sites) often lead the tours.

Practical information

• For detailed schedules, access points and participation procedures consult the official website: www.giornatefai.it.
• Check for any access limits, required bookings or specific instructions before your visit.
• Several openings offer routes and materials designed to improve accessibility and welcome visitors with special needs.