A journey through medieval castles, Alpine landscapes, archaeological sites, and evidence of industrial history. The weekend of June 13 and 14, 2026, will offer the public the opportunity to experience some of Switzerland's most significant UNESCO-recognized sites up close. The tenth edition of the World Heritage Days returns, an initiative coordinated by the World Heritage Switzerland (WHES) association to promote awareness and appreciation of World Heritage properties.
The event, which over the years has established itself as a showcase for discovering the country's cultural and natural heritage, will offer a rich program of activities aimed at a broad and diverse audience. This year's theme, "Discover, Experience, Be Amazed," invites us to consider these places not just as tourist destinations, but as living testimonies to history, the environment, and collective identity.
Experiences that go beyond the traditional visit
For two days, Switzerland's UNESCO sites will open their doors with opportunities to explore spaces that are normally off-limits or accessible only on special occasions. In addition to guided tours, there will be themed itineraries, meetings with specialists, educational activities, and in-depth discussions dedicated to heritage conservation.
The goal is to showcase the work that goes on behind the scenes every day to preserve these places and pass on their value to future generations. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with heritage conservation professionals, researchers, cultural workers, and experts committed to protecting ecosystems and historical assets.
According to Kaspar Schürch, director of World Heritage Switzerland, the initiative represents an opportunity to highlight the extraordinary variety of UNESCO sites in the country and to educate the population about them.
From Ticino to the Alps, a heritage that unites the country
The activities will take place in numerous locations across the country. These include Bellinzona and Meride, along with Bern, Bergün, Flims-Laax, Grindelwald, Hauterive, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Le Locle, Müstair, Riederalp, and St. Gallen.
For the Ticino public, the event takes on a special significance thanks to the presence of the sites of Bellinzona and Meride, two places that tell different yet complementary stories of the region's history. On the one hand, the fortified heritage of Bellinzona's castles; on the other, the scientific and naturalistic value of Monte San Giorgio, renowned for its internationally important fossil finds.
Culture and nature as a shared responsibility
World Heritage Days were created with the aim of fostering greater awareness of the importance of heritage protection. It's not just about preserving monuments or landscapes, but about protecting heritage that belongs to the entire community.
The properties recognized by UNESCO represent a legacy that transcends regional and national boundaries. Their protection requires expertise, investment, and ongoing collaboration between institutions, local communities, and specialists.
Through outreach activities and gatherings, the event aims to highlight this commitment, demonstrating how cultural and natural heritage can serve as a tool for dialogue between past, present, and future.
Free participation and registration
Most of the weekend's events will be free. Some events, especially those with limited access or small group visits, will require advance reservations.
The complete program, registration procedures, and information on the various Swiss UNESCO sites are available on the official World Heritage Days portal: World Heritage Days.
Further information on the activities of World Heritage Switzerland can also be found on the association's official website: Our Heritage – World Heritage Switzerland.
The images made available to the media can be downloaded via the link provided by the organizers in the press materials.
