The mission of FAI (Fondo Ambiente Italiano, usually referred to in English as the Italian National Trust) is twofold: on the one hand, it is to promote a tangible culture of respect for Italy's natural heritage, art, history and traditions; and on the other, it is to protect a legacy that forms a fundamental part of the roots and identity of the Italian people. FAI is a national, not-for-profit trust that was set up in 1975 and has since gone on to save, restore and open to the public numerous fine examples of Italy's artistic and natural heritage.
History
FAI (Fondo Ambiente Italiano, usually referred to in English as the Italian National Trust) is a non-profit trust that was founded on 28 April 1975 in order to contribute to the protection, conservation and enhancement of Italy's artistic legacy, natural heritage and landscape. FAI came about as the result of a concept proposed by Elena Croce – daughter of the great philosopher Benedetto Croce – who wanted to see an Italian equivalent to the National Trust in England.
On 28 April 1975, FAI's constitution and statute were signed by Giulia Maria Mozzoni Crespi, Renato Bazzoni, Alberto Predieri and Franco Russoli, who were filled with enthusiasm and ambition for their long-cherished dream. After more than thirty-five years, that dream has been transformed into reality, thanks to the commitment of all those who have decided to take part in this wide-ranging project, and to the generosity of those great many private individuals, companies and institutions that have supported their work in the past and continue to support it to this day.
It really does seem like yesterday when, way back in 1976, FAI received its first donation, from lawyer Piero di Blasi: a thousand square metres in Panarea, in the Aeolian archipelago. Fast-forward thirty-plus years to our latest acquisitions: the Woodland of San Francesco in Assisi, the Olivetti Showroom in Piazza San Marco in Venice and Villa Fogazzaro Roi in Oria di Valsolda (in the province of Como). In the intervening years, FAI has acquired assets very frequently, so much so that today they control 48 heritage sites, 25 of which are open to the public. Thanks to FAI, these wonderful jewels now belong once again to Italy and to all of them.
Mission
FAI – Fondo Ambiente Italiano (the National Trust for Italy) is a non-profit foundation that operates thanks to the support of individuals, companies and institutions.
Since its founding in 1975, FAI has drawn inspiration from the National Trust for England, Wales & Northern Ireland, and is affiliated with INTO – the International National Trusts Organisation.
FAI, with the contribution of everyone:
