Preserving Italy’s Hidden Gems: The FAI’s “I Luoghi del Cuore” Initiative
The Italian Environment Fund (FAI) has announced the selection of 20 new projects to receive economic contributions as part of its “I Luoghi del Cuore” (Places of the Heart) initiative. This program aims to support the restoration and valorization of little-known or undervalued places in Italy, often at risk, that embody the country’s rich cultural heritage and collective memory. The selected projects, located in 11 regions across Italy, will receive a total of 700,000 euros, the highest amount ever allocated to the program.
A Diverse Range of Projects
The selected projects showcase a diverse range of Italy’s cultural and natural heritage, from the Quisquina Hermitage in the Agrigento hinterland to the Sant’Elia nursery school in Como, a masterpiece of modern architecture designed by Giuseppe Terragni. Other projects include the village of Nidastore, the northernmost of the castles of Arcevia, and the small Filippa Museum in Rimella, which houses a unique collection of objects that tell the story of the valley’s inhabitants. These projects demonstrate the richness and variety of Italy’s cultural and natural heritage, and the importance of preserving it for future generations.
Supporting Local Communities
The FAI’s initiative not only provides economic support to these projects but also helps to mobilize local communities and raise awareness about the importance of preserving Italy’s cultural and natural heritage. Of the 20 selected projects, 18 are located in small municipalities and hamlets, often in internal or peripheral areas, where the FAI’s support can make a significant difference. The initiative has a notable social value, as it helps to strengthen community spirit, attract new resources, and even give birth to new local economies.
Economic Impact
The FAI’s initiative also has a significant economic impact, as the allocated contributions are expected to activate additional resources of over 820,000 euros, more than 150% of the tender budget. This demonstrates the potential of the initiative to leverage further investment and support for the preservation and valorization of Italy’s cultural and natural heritage.
A Long-Term Commitment
The FAI’s “I Luoghi del Cuore” initiative has been running since 2003 and has supported a total of 180 projects to date. The next census is scheduled to launch in May 2026, demonstrating the FAI’s long-term commitment to preserving and promoting Italy’s cultural and natural heritage. For more information on the initiative and the selected projects, visit Here