- do 12 november 2026
This leading heritage congress brings together professionals, administrators, and sector experts to discuss current societal challenges within monument conservation. The central themes are sustainability, repurposing, and the public value of historic real estate. The program features inspiring speakers and the presentation of the national heritage prize, ensuring an indispensable networking opportunity in the heritage world.
What is the event?
The National Monuments Congress is the most important annual platform for the Dutch monuments and heritage sector. Every year, the congress takes place in a different historic city to highlight current developments, policy issues, and innovations in practice. The event stimulates dialogue on how we can preserve and protect our built heritage while simultaneously functionally integrating it into a modern, changing society.
Program and content
The conference program offers a strong mix of plenary keynotes, interactive breakout sessions, and practice-oriented excursions in the region. Experts from academia, government, and industry share their vision on major challenges such as the energy transition in monumental buildings and innovative restoration techniques. A fixed and festive part of the event is the announcement and ceremonial presentation of the BNG Bank Heritage Prize to the best heritage municipality in the Netherlands.
Who is the event for?
This national congress has been specifically developed for professionals working within the broad heritage and real estate sector. This includes policymakers at municipalities and provinces, architects, restorers, project developers, and monument owners, among others. Academics, students from relevant degree programs, and representatives of social heritage organizations will also find the perfect opportunity here to acquire specialized knowledge and expand their network.
