Feel Good Friday - FAI - The National Trust for Italy

Ciao! Felice sentirsi bene vernerdì!

I'm back from my trip to Italy and still interested in all things Italian, including today's Feel Good Friday organization, Fondo Ambiente Italiano (FAI), the National Trust for Italy.

Founded in 1975, FAI "restores and takes care of special places in Italy so that present and future generations from all over the world may enjoy a priceless legacy." Italy has more UNESCO sites than any other country. FAI focuses on protecting these cultural, artistic and natural wonders as they say, "forever, for everyone." Watch this 2-minute video to see some of the sites and learn more.

Today, FAI manages 64 sites across Italy, 31 of which are open to the public. You can virtually tour them at this link: visit fai. These villas, castles and parks are acquired by donation, or granted by state or local authorities. With the help of individual and corporate sponsors, FAI restores the sites and then opens them to the public for exhibitions, events and educational programs for students. Collectively, these sites managed by FAI welcome a million visitors each year!

Whether you choose to visit Ieranto Bay, home of the sirens that tempted Ulysses; Villa Necchi Campiglio, an icon of 1930's deco in the heart of Milan; or Teatrino di Vetriano, the world's smallest public theater, do your research on the FAI website before you go. You can check this page for a listing of upcoming events.

If you'd like to support the work of FAI in preserving the cultural heritage of Italy you can do so by becoming a member, making a donation and spreading the good word on social media. Like their Facebook page and follow them on Instagram @fondoambiente. Grazie!