FAI, or Fondo per l'Ambiente Italiano, is a non-profit foundation founded in 1975 with the aim of safeguarding Italy's historical, artistic, and landscape heritage, similar to the National Trust in the USA. FAI opens hundreds of private villas, palaces, gardens, churches, and other sites across Italy to the public during two weekends each year, one in the Spring and the other in the Fall.
"Open Weekend" was held in October with 700 sites throughout Italy and open to the public with a small donation. We chose to purchse a couples membership due to the myriad other benefits offered throughout the year.
One of the locations in Padova was of particular interest to us, because it is across the street from our apartment!
Phase One of the foundation across the street is a former church turned art gallery. It opened in 2022 and construction turned to the private residence spaces on the second floor and private events space on the first floor, the piano nobile.
THE PIANO NOBILE FRESCOS AND PAINTINGS
Work will continue for a while, so it seems! Renovation on the second floor has not yet begun, and since the building is historic, special permits from the city are required in order to preserve its integrity.
We often pass by this rotonda located just inside the city walls. It was fun to take a closer look and see the beautiful restored gardens and fountains.
We are plan to go to Villa dei Vescovi just outside of Padova next week and entry is included with our FAI membership! I'd love to know what secret places you discover during the next "open weekend" in the Spring.
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