"Canals, mines, breweries, potteries, forges, railways, cotton mills tell us as much about our heritage as celebrated archelogical sites, cathedrals and castles. This year Europe has come together to examine our shared past through the unique lens of our Industrial Heritage, with more than 30 countries joining this common theme. Throughout Europe we can see the remains of our industrial past: bridges, canals and railways, still in use today, making invaluable contributions to our economy. However, in most countries there are signs of long-gone industry – a derelict mill, a rusting machine, a brick chimney - all marking the sites of a once-thriving workplace and community. Our industrial past tells the story of change, development and creativity. It tells the stories of how and where we worked, the kinds of jobs we did and how we lived."

This is how this year's "industrial heritage" common theme is introduced on the European Heritage Days platform. Look for events near you on the dynamic map.

The European Heritage Days are the most widely celebrated participatory cultural event shared by the citizens of Europe. The Council of Europe launched the initiative in 1985, and in 1999 was joined by the European Union to create the joint action, which has continued up to the present day. Conceivably, the Programme, which can boast up to 20 million visitors every year, generates the greatest value, Euro for Euro, of any “European” cultural project.

Held in September each year, EHDs events – often called Heritage Open Days - take place in the 50 countries party to the European Cultural Convention. During this time, doors are opened to numerous monuments and sites, allowing Europe’s citizens to enjoy free visits and learn about their shared cultural heritage and encouraging them to become actively involved in the safeguard and enhancement of this heritage for present and future generations.