Thousands upon thousands of individuals in the Capital of Memorial!
In a grand display of cultural heritage and historical significance, the Open Heritage Day was held nationwide on September 14, 2025. The event, traditionally held on the second Sunday in September, attracted several million visitors across 2,300 cities and municipalities in Germany.
The event kicked off in the city of Gera, a city that has been part of the Open Heritage Day event series since its beginning. The opening ceremony was graced by Mario Voigt, the Minister-President of Thuringia, who delivered a forward-looking message about the future of Thuringia and the importance of preserving its cultural legacy.
Voigt emphasized the need for a forward-looking view, not a backward glance, to keep the thought of home alive. He stated that monuments are symbols of history and home, and days like the Open Heritage Day are necessary to shake things up.
The Minister-President's speech focused on the importance of Thuringia and the need for a forward-looking perspective. He encouraged all engaged and newly interested parties across the country to participate and contribute to the preservation of the nation's cultural heritage.
The German Foundation for Monument Protection (DSD) was the driving force behind the event. Their annual theme for 2025 was "Worth-it: Priceless or Irreplaceable?" The DSD welcomed over 17,000 guests throughout the day in more than 40 heritage sites and on the event plaza in Gera alone.
The nationwide opening of the Open Heritage Day featured a Market of Possibilities and exclusively opened heritage sites. Gera showcases a fascinating range of historical styles, with a focus on younger epochs such as Ostmodern and Bauhaus architecture.
Dr. Steffen Skudelny, a cultural expert, stated that the nationwide gathering of various people demonstrates that culture doesn't require translation. He commended the Open Heritage Day for its ability to bring people together in celebration of their shared cultural heritage.
Mayor Kurt Dannenberg summarized the event, saying that the nationwide opening of the Open Heritage Day in Gera was a special way to highlight monument protection. He expressed his gratitude for the participation and support from the citizens and visitors alike.
The Open Heritage Day was a resounding success, with over 9,000 offers provided at approximately 6,500 heritage sites across the country. It served as a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage for future generations.
