Saturday, September 10, is the 25th edition of the Open Monument Day in Utrecht, an event in which historic buildings, not always open to the public, throw open their doors. The theme this year is New Uses for Old Buildings, and explores some of the buildings in and around the city that have changed uses over the years. For example, the building now known as the University Library (Drift 27) in the city center was once was the palace of King Louis Napoleon in 1807. The Louis Hartlooper cinema was once a police station.

There will be special guided tours, both on foot and on bike, as well as debates about changes to come in other historic buildings. Music, cultural activities and more will also be taking place. The Domplein serves as the starting point for many of the activities, so you can always head there first. You can also visit the official website to get a full listing of the buildings both in and outside the city center that are taking part in the event.