660 properties will be open to the public throughout Italy during a weekend
sponsored by FAI, the Italian National Trust. This year, in honor of Italy’s 150th anniversary, the 2011 weekend includes places linked to the Risorgimento in Italy, as well as bicycle rides, guided walking tours through nature reserves, and visits to archeological sites and gardens. Many sites are not normally open to the public, so here’s your chance to get a peek into Italy’s hidden treasures.
You are encouraged to make a donation of your choice to FAI, which goes toward the restoration of important historical properties and gardens, as well as an educational program in Italian schools promoting knowledge and pride in Italy’s vast cultural and historical heritage.
Visits to many sites are available in several languages, with Italian school kids as your guides – in my past experience, they have been excellent and enthusiastic tour guides to these unique attractions. Dates are March 26 & 27, 2011. The FAI website has a complete listing of open sites in every region of Italy – just click on the map of Italy for a list of properties and hours.
Read about other unique attractions in Italy: