Italy celebrates the 26th National Castle Days, a weekend of guided tours, cultural excursions, lectures, and concerts at 38 historic sites in 20 regions, including islands, marine protected areas, natural parks, and medieval hilltop towns. Organized by the Italian Castle Institute, a non-profit cultural organization founded in 1964 and recognized by the Ministry of Culture, the event promotes awareness and preservation of Italy's fortified architecture: castles, towers, fortresses, and walled villages. The Institute is affiliated with Europa Nostra, under the patronage of UNESCO, and is a leading voice in the defense of cultural heritage.