In the heart of Verona, Italy, the Chiese Vive association is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2024, marking three decades of unwavering dedication to the preservation and promotion of the city’s rich artistic and religious heritage. Founded in 1995 by the visionary Bishop Attilio Nicora, this non-profit organization has become an indispensable guardian of Verona’s cultural treasures, ensuring their accessibility and enjoyment for generations to come.
Chiese Vive holds the esteemed responsibility of safeguarding and managing four of Verona’s most cherished landmarks: the Basilica of San Zeno, the Cathedral Complex, the Basilica of Sant’Anastasia, and the Church of San Fermo. These architectural marvels, steeped in history and artistic grandeur, welcome visitors from around the globe, opening their doors 364 days a year. In 2024 alone, these iconic churches have drawn over half a million visitors, a testament to their enduring allure and the association’s commitment to accessibility.
Beyond their role as custodians, Chiese Vive is deeply committed to the ongoing restoration and enhancement of these historical sites. In 2024, the association has already funded 13 restoration projects, with an additional seven in the pipeline. These initiatives not only preserve the structural integrity of the buildings but also breathe new life into their artistic elements, ensuring their continued vibrancy for centuries to come. As Monsignor Giovanni Ballarini, president of Chiese Vive, aptly states, “Restoring churches is a way to keep them alive, ensuring their religious function and survival for future generations.”
Chiese Vive’s dedication extends beyond bricks and mortar. The association is also a driving force in Verona’s cultural landscape, organizing a plethora of initiatives that engage and enrich the community. In 2024 alone, 75 cultural events have been hosted, offering opportunities for locals and tourists alike to delve into the captivating history and artistic legacy of these iconic churches.
Chiese Vive: embracing the future
As Chiese Vive embarks on its fourth decade, it remains steadfast in its commitment to accessibility and innovation. The association recognizes the importance of ensuring that these cultural treasures are accessible to all, regardless of physical limitations. In recent years, significant strides have been made in removing architectural barriers, making these spaces more welcoming to visitors with mobility challenges. “I remember,” reflects Monsignor Ballarini, “the great challenge, initiated in 2018, of the removal of architectural barriers in the Cathedral complex, which is now fully accessible.”
Looking ahead, Chiese Vive is embracing technology to further enhance the visitor experience. The association is actively developing audio guides in sign language and multimedia totems, ensuring that even those with sensory impairments can fully appreciate the beauty and history of these architectural gems.
The maintenance of these historic buildings is an ongoing endeavor, requiring significant resources and unwavering dedication. Chiese Vive recognizes the challenges of independently sustaining these efforts and actively seeks partnerships and collaborations to ensure the long-term preservation of these cultural treasures. As Monsignor Ballarini notes, “Unfortunately, the resources for restoration that came from various agencies and institutions have practically run out, and this creates great uncertainty for the future.”
The association’s work is not just about preserving the past; it’s about safeguarding these invaluable assets for future generations. By supporting Chiese Vive, you become a part of this legacy, ensuring that these beacons of faith, art, and history continue to inspire and enrich lives for centuries to come.
