European Day of Historic Gardens 2026
On 26 April, the 7th European Day of Historic Gardens will be celebrated across Europe. This year’s edition is special, as it coincides with the 10th anniversary of the creation of the European Route of Historic Gardens. Under the theme “Historic Gardens Grow Europe”, the event encourages people to discover the remarkable heritage of gardens that have shaped the continent’s cultural landscape for centuries and continue to inspire new generations.
The European Day of Historic Gardens is an initiative of the European Route of Historic Gardens. Each year, it encourages residents and tourists to explore exceptional green spaces that are not only places of relaxation but also important witnesses to our shared history and culture.
This year’s celebrations take place under the slogan “Historic Gardens Grow Europe”. The slogan highlights the dual meaning of gardens. On the one hand, they are living spaces – they grow, change, and inspire. On the other hand, they symbolize the growth of the European Route of Historic Gardens itself, which has been steadily expanding since its creation.
10 years of the European Route of Historic Gardens
In 2026, the ERHG also celebrates its 10th anniversary. A decade ago, several European historic gardens decided to join forces to protect and promote garden heritage together. Today, the route brings together 51 gardens from ten countries, becoming one of the important initiatives in the field of cultural tourism.
The importance of the route was confirmed in October 2020, when it was recognized as a Cultural Route of the Council of Europe. This distinction is awarded to initiatives that promote shared European heritage, international cooperation, and the sustainable development of regions.
Events and attractions in the gardens
The celebrations of the European Day of Historic Gardens are primarily intended to highlight the significance of these unique places. Numerous events are organized in the gardens belonging to the route, including open days, guided tours, lectures and workshops, themed walks, outdoor art activities, exhibitions, and educational meetings.
Thanks to these initiatives, visitors can not only admire the beauty of the gardens but also learn about their history, landscape architecture, and the role they played in Europe’s social and cultural life.
Why are historic gardens so important?
Historic gardens are a unique part of Europe’s heritage. They tell the story of regions, artistic styles, and cultural influences that have shaped the continent for centuries. They are also spaces of memory and inspiration – places for meeting, relaxation, and contact with nature. Today, they gain additional importance as green oases in cities, improving residents’ quality of life and attracting tourists interested in culture and nature.
The European Day of Historic Gardens reminds us that these remarkable places are a shared asset of Europeans. Protecting them, promoting them, and making them responsibly accessible is an investment in the future – for both culture and the sustainable development of regions.