17/11/2014

Thousands Attend European Heritage Open Days

A record number of people have attended European Heritage Open Days throughout Northern Ireland this year, Environment Minister Mark H Durkan has announced.

In September of this year, he said 75,610 people took part in the celebration of European-built heritage, an increase of 11% from 2013.

More than 400 buildings and events took part in the initiative.

Minister Durkan said: "European Heritage Open Days keep getting bigger and better each year. This year, visitors were able to see how a building of interest could be brought to life through film, craft and food events.

"I would like to say a big thank you to all the owners who opened their doors and to the people who came in their droves from far and wide to appreciate our historic gems."

The Northern Ireland Tourist Board, who host the EHOD webpage within Discover NI, added that they are "extremely impressed" with the event's popularity.

Naomi Waite, NITB Director of Marketing, commented: "The Northern Ireland Tourist Board was delighted to host the EHOD webpage within discovernorthernireland.com which provided information and updates on the widest choice of free activities throughout this fantastic weekend.

"I am extremely impressed with the significant increase in the number of page views to this site and the huge number of visitors attracted to this years' event."

(JP/MH)

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

18 August 2021
NI Heritage Buildings To Open Doors For Annual Event
Over 250 heritage buildings are set to open their doors to guests as part of the upcoming 24th annual European Heritage Open Days (EHOD). The event, which takes place from 06-21 September, celebrates local architecture, history and culture.
08 September 2008
European Event Unlocks Doors To NI Architectural Treasures
Hundreds of historic buildings, across Northern Ireland, will unlock their doors to the general public this weekend, as part of the European Heritage Open Days. The annual event kicks-off on 
13 and 14 September, and will offer access to venues normally firmly closed to the public.
07 September 2007
Architectural Gems Open This Weekend
There will be 230 events and properties open to the public this weekend as Northern Ireland’s part of European Heritage Open Days (EHOD). Last year, EHOD was enjoyed by over 40,000 visitors here in the annual two-day culture festival which again promises to delight and entertain across all ages and interests this year.
13 August 2018
21st Annual European Heritage Open Day Launched
The Department for Communities has announced details of the 21st annual European Heritage Open Day, taking place across Northern Ireland on the 08–09 September. With over 300 venues taking part, this is one of Northern Ireland's largest free events open to the public.
17 September 2003
NI host European Heritage Open Day weekend
Some of Northern Ireland's most exquisite buildings will be open to the public this weekend as part of the European Heritage Open Days event.