Many of Rome's museums, galleries and contemporary buildings to which there is normally limited public access are open free of charge over the weekend of 5-6 May.

Dedicated to Rome's varied and sometimes hidden architectural design, the inaugural Open House Roma offers guided tours all over the capital, including bicycle tours and events for children.

Visitors can enjoy a behind-the-scenes peek at an eclectic list of participating venues, which include the city's opera house, Teatro Argentina, Palazzo Madama, the Foro Italico swimming pools, S. Croce in Gerusaleme, the Japanese Cultural Institute, Palazzo Salviati, the Basilica of Cosmas and Damian, Ponte della Scienza and even Tiburtina station.

On 5 May there are tours in English at Villa Farnesina and Palazzo Marina, on request, while on 6 May there is a tour in English of the Acquario Romano.

The event is organised by non-profit cultural association Open City Roma, which is assisted by a large number of architects, volunteers and guides.

Booking is required for some tours, for full details including map see www.openhouseroma.org.