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.

Environment Minister Arlene Foster launched the 10th Anniversary Event in a very historic building, the former Harland & Wolff drawing offices in the Titanic Quarter, the birthplace of over 1,700 ships most notably the RMS Titanic and her sister ship the RMS Olympic.

Minister Foster said: "Our European Heritage Open Days events thrive on the enthusiasm and expertise of local people. Over the coming weekend, we will celebrate our rich legacy of built heritage culture in Northern Ireland.

"I am very grateful to the owners of these buildings who open their doors to provide us all with a rare opportunity to see inside. Last year over 40,000 people took part in the organised events and I do hope that those of you who have participated in previous years will make a return visit and for those of you who have not yet participated I strongly recommend doing so and making this 10th anniversary the most successful event yet.

"There are fine examples of buildings ranging from courthouses and jails to a model village; cathedrals to a lighthouse keeper’s cottage and a traditional thatched building. Most of these properties are not normally accessible to the public. This weekend affords us all a superb opportunity to see what is behind the doors of these wonderful properties and there is something for everyone no matter what age or interest."

(CD/SP)