Future Generations

A journey with FAI: Preserving Italy's hidden gems

© Villa e Collezione Panza, Varese, Italy, FAI – Fondo per l’Ambiente Italiano

In an era where the conservation of cultural heritage is becoming increasingly urgent, FAI, the Fondo per l'Ambiente Italiano, stands as a national champion, safeguarding historic and cultural assets. Founded in 1975, this non-profit is on a mission to protect, enhance, and share Italy's wonders with the public.

Imagine the treasures: villas, castles, abbeys, and even stretches of coastline, all meticulously restored by FAI. Seventy-two such "Assets" make up their collection, with fifty-five open to the public thanks to dedicated professionals and volunteers. These wonders span eras, from the ancient ruins of Parco Villa Gregoriana to the modern marvel of the Olivetti Store in Venice.

Step into a living history book:

  • Villa Necchi Campiglio, designed in the early 1930s by Piero Portaluppi, the residence is famous for its architecture blending Art Deco and Rationalism and stands as an emblem of Milanese bourgeois architecture and life. 
  • Lake Como's romantic Villa del Balbianello, is an elegant 18th-century residence once frequented by literati and travelers up to its last owner, the entrepreneur and explorer Guido Monzino. The Villa, often a set for contemporary films, preserves the memories of his adventures and a collection of precious works of art.
  • Negozio Olivetti, is a 20th-century masterpiece designed by Carlo Scarpa. Commissioned to FAI in 2011, it offers a blend of modernity and history, showcasing exhibitions of historic Olivetti machines and the famous central staircase.
© Villa del Balbianello, Lake Como, Italy, FAI – Fondo per l’Ambiente Italiano

Beyond the tourist trail, FAI unveils hidden gems:

  • The Abbey of San Fruttuoso, over a millennia-old Benedictine monastery, located between the Ligurian Sea and woods of Monte di Portofino. Set in a secluded bay, it is only accessible by ferry or by foot.
  • Apulia's Abbey of Santa Maria di Cerrate, founded between the 11th and 12th centuries, first flourished as a prominent monastic center and later as an agricultural estate. A comprehensive restoration project by FAI has restored this example of Apulian Romanesque architecture.
  • The Garden of the Kolymbethra in Sicily,is a precious archaeological and agricultural jewel located in the heart of the Valley of the Temples of Agrigento. Restored by FAI, it offers sensory experiences blending antiquity and biodiversity: centuries-old olive trees, citrus fruits, and archaeological finds narrate its millennia-long history.
© Villa Della Porta Bozzolo, Varese, Italy, FAI – Fondo per l’Ambiente Italiano

Joining forces for Italy's future:

Our cultural heritage is the very essence of Italy. Safeguarding it is a responsibility to future generations which is why we at Italyscape are proud to be a Corporate Golden Donor, contributing significantly to restoration efforts. 

Imagine combining your Italian dream vacation with supporting a worthy cause.  By choosing Italyscape, you're not just getting an exceptional travel experience, you're directly helping FAI protect Italy's irreplaceable legacy.

© Villa dei Vescovi, Padova, Italy, FAI – Fondo per l’Ambiente Italiano