commitment and solidarity

DonDir Project,

A story of dedication since 1821

DonDir is a charity project born from the centuries-old activity of the Opera Pia Laicale Cosi, authorized by rescript of the Grand Duke of Tuscany on September 20, 1806.

DonDir Project

A story of dedication since 1821

DonDir is a charity project born from the centuries-old activity of the Opera Pia Laicale Cosi, authorized by rescript of the Grand Duke of Tuscany on September 20, 1806.

The real estate legacy of Opera Pia and its charitable mission

Charitable heritage

Mission

The real estate legacy of Opera Pia and its charitable mission

Having become the custodian of real estate assets in three different bequests, the Opera Pia has always devolved its rental income to actively contribute to good works.

Even today, the Opera’s three main buildings still fulfill their mission, welcoming new guests who, with their stay, help the project continue over the centuries. Finely renovated, the buildings nurture the long charitable tradition, which finds its roots in the generous heart of Florence and that of all those who contribute to the mission.

What drives us in our mission

At the heart of the DonDir project is the desire to continue the commitment to solidarity that the Opera has been carrying out for 200 years, under the shrewd leadership of its Board of Directors. As required by the original statute, the Board is made up of a Florentine gentleman in the role of President, a priest and a lawyer, who serve without any compensation assisted by a Chartered Accountant in the capacity of Treasurer, and appoint their successors once they are appointed to the Board themselves. DonDir is much more than a charitable project; It is a living link between the past and the present, fueled by the generosity of those who believe in its mission. Every contribution, large or small, forms the canvas of a common vision of assistance and care for those in need.

Our projects

The projects supported by DonDir

congregation

The Little Sisters of the Poor

An international congregation founded in 1839, the Little Sisters of the Poor offer help and a home to poor elderly people in over 30 countries around the world.

Donors

19 DONATIONS

€ 7114.00

VOLUNTEERS

34

congregation

The Bonomini of San Martino

The Bonomini of San Martino have been assisting the needy since 1441, even today their mission is essential to protect dignity and health while respecting discretion.

Donors

13 DONATIONS

€ 4506.00

VOLUNTEERS

22

Our properties

Three historic venues, a single experience

The three Opera Pia properties adhering to the DonDir project are all located in the city center of Florence, to which they are linked by history, spirit and beauty.

Income from the rents of the three properties is donated to support charitable projects.

The Mona Lisa rediscovered

Located on via Panzani, a stone’s throw from Florence Cathedral, The Frame Hotel was born out of the historic Albergo Tripoli where, in 1913, Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa painting, stolen from the Louvre musem, was found. The memory of the event still lives on in the collection of contemporary artworks, dedicated to the Mona Lisa, which grace the 24 precious rooms. A perfect meeting of past and present, made even more evocative by the hotel’s fine restoration by master craftsmen who have brought precious original elements back to life. Exposed bricks and stones, striking wooden ceilings, a splendid vaulted cellar and an imposing spiral staircase combine with contemporary comforts in a complex harmony of styles.

Generosity and innovation in the heart of Florence

The units in the Opera Pia’s second property, located on Via de’ Neri, have been entrusted to the management of Etesian, the Florentine operator of choice for tourist accommodation and rental apartments. Marrying tireless commitment to remarkable organizational skills, Etesian has been able to stand out even in a highly competitive landscape such as the one that distinguishes Florence. In sign of gratitude for their success, the founders of Etesian decided to give back a substantial part of the profits generated by their business to those most in need. The collaboration with the Opera Pia and the DonDir project stems from this common intent of care and love for the city and the neediest people who inhabit it.

Design, Sustainability and Solidarity

Coco Places is a hospitality experience founded on environments that combine design and sustainability, starting with furnishings made from materials 100 percent natural. The Opera Pia chose to entrust Coco Places with the management of the historic property on Via della Scala, which has been completely renovated, because of its founder’s long standing focus on charitable works. His willingness to become an active participant in the DonDir project has made him a spiritual partner and a privileged interlocutor in an adventure capable of going beyond the boundaries of the owner/tenant binomial. A common path marked by solidarity and daily commitment to support charitable organizations.