The Inrap—France’s National Institute for Preventive Archaeological Research—is organizing a series of events across the country during the European Heritage Days (JEP), which will take place on Saturday, September 19, and Sunday, September 20, 2026. This year’s events focus on two main themes: “Photography Heritage,” which explores the role of photography in preserving cultural history, and “Endangered Heritage: Revive, Resist, Reimagine,” which highlights efforts to protect and restore at-risk historical sites and traditions. In Saint-Martin, Inrap is offering a special guided visit to the former Spring sugar refinery in the Concordia neighborhood. The tour, led by archaeologist Fabrice Casagrande, will take place on both days at 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM. Visitors are required to register in advance for these events. In the Pays de la Loire region, Inrap is participating in several events that highlight the field of preventive archaeology, which involves uncovering and documenting historical sites before construction or development begins. In Nantes, Inrap is collaborating with the construction company Lefèvre and the regional heritage authority, DRAC, to showcase the work involved in restoring the Nantes cathedral. The event will include a live demonstration of stone cutting by Lefèvre, a presentation of findings from recent preventive excavations, and interactive activities led by Inrap. These events will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on both days and will be free of charge. In Pornic, the public will have a rare opportunity to visit an active excavation site during the European Heritage Days. Archaeologists will lead guided tours and offer demonstrations on salt production, as well as interactive activities related to archaeology and its various professions. School groups can book visits on Friday, while the public can attend on Saturday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. In Montevrault-sur-Evre, a guided walk through the old villages of potters and bricklayers will be led by Jean-François Nauleau, an Inrap archaeologist and expert in fired earth. The walk will take place on Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and requires advance registration. It is free and open to those aged 8 and older. In Entrammes, a public conference titled “50 Years of archaeological discoveries in Entrammes (53)” will be held by Alain Valais, an Inrap archaeologist and medieval history specialist. The event, organized by the history group of the Inter Amnes association and supported by the local government, will take place on Friday, September 18, at 8:30 p.m. It marks the 40th anniversary of the discovery of ancient thermal baths in the area. The conference is free and open to all members of the public.