Vicenza and the Palladian Villas: anniversary weekend of visits (17-19

Anniversary weekend for the UNESCO site "City of Vicenza and the Palladian Villas"

From 17 to 19 April 2026, Vicenza and several Palladian villas across the province will open their doors for a weekend of visits and events aimed at highlighting the architectural heritage recognized by UNESCO. The initiative aligns with Icomos Day and offers programmes suitable for both residents and visitors interested in Andrea Palladio's legacy.

What to see and how to join

Main civic sites in Vicenza will be accessible, while villas in the surrounding territory will offer either regular or special openings. Key locations involved include:

• Teatro Olimpico
• Museo civico di Palazzo Chiericati
• Basilica Palladiana
• Palazzo Thiene
• Chiesa di Santa Corona
• Palladio Museum
• Palladian villas (e.g. Villa Almerico Capra "La Rotonda", Villa Barbaro in Maser, Villa Badoer "La Badoera", Villa Pojana, Villa Pisani in Lonigo, Villa Foscari "La Malcontenta" and other special openings like Villa Pisani in Montagnana, Villa Angarano, Villa Forni Cerato, Villa Piovene, Villa Thiene, Villa Trissino in Cricoli)

Main programme

The schedule includes public openings from Friday through Sunday, with dedicated activities on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 April. Highlights include:

• six free guided tours of Palladian sites in the historic centre on 18 and 19 April;
• extraordinary openings of select villas not usually accessible;
• cultural routes and thematic itineraries to explore Palladio's work;
• an immersive theatre itinerary titled "Silent Play. Palladio between the lines", scheduled for Sunday 19 April at 11:00, produced by the theatre company La Piccionaia.

Why attend

The weekend aims to enhance accessibility to the Palladian heritage and strengthen the network connecting historic buildings and villas throughout the area. It’s an opportunity to rediscover architectural masterpieces, visit lesser-known sites and join guided tours that explain the history and construction techniques of the period.

Practical tips

• Check for any required reservations for tours or limited-access sites.
• Arrive early for free guided tours as places may be limited.
• Consult official pages of individual sites or local tourist offices for up-to-date opening times and information.

Attending this anniversary weekend supports the promotion and preservation of a UNESCO heritage that is central to Venetian and Italian cultural identity.