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The Patrons of the
Arts in the Vatican Museums is a select
group of people dedicated to the preservation
and perpetuation of the vast and unique collection
of art contained in the Vatican Museums. The
Patrons have been in existence since 1982 when
a major exhibition of Vatican art toured the
United States in New York, Chicago and San Francisco.
Restoration of the art contained in the exhibition
was made possible by donors recognizing the
unique opportunity to participate in the work
of the Vatican Museums. One year later, the
Patrons organization was officially launched.
Patrons worldwide have accepted the same membership
in this exclusive work of art history.
Although the
Vatican Museums host over 15,000 visitors each
day, the sale of tickets only provides for the
daily operation of the museums. The museums
are not subsidized by the Holy See and must
be self-sufficient which means that the work
of restoration and conservation must be supported
by Patrons dedicated to the unique spiritual
and cultural mission of the Vatican Museums
and Pontifical Galleries. While often unseen
the conservation of the irreplaceable art collections
is an invitation to be personally involved in
one of the worlds greatest treasures of art
and culture.
Patrons
are invited to donate $500.00 annually per person
for membership, $1,000.00 for family membership,
or $250.00 for junior membership (35 years of
age and under). These membership fees are used
for restoration work, conservation projects,
equipment for the restoration laboratories,
capital improvements and acquisition of art.
Patrons come from all over
the world, representing various religious backgrounds,
and bring different experiences to the Patrons
Chapters throughout North America and Europe.
The Chapters meet regularly, sponsor dinners
and social events to plan and raise money for
restorations and travel to the Vatican Museums
to see the results of their efforts. Patrons
receive a Vatican Museums Report from the International
Director at the Vatican and notification of
special events prepared specifically for Patrons.
When Patrons
visit the Vatican, they are received in the
Office of the Patrons of the Arts in the Apostolic
Palace. They are provided a complimentary tour
of the Vatican Museums with a private guide
and are encouraged to visit the restoration
laboratories and sections of the museums not
open to the public. Patrons are invited to Vatican
ceremonies when important restorations are unveiled
and share in the legacy and heritage of the
art of the Vatican Museums.
If you are living in the United States
or Canada and you would like more information
on becoming a Patron of the Arts, please
click here to contact our North
American National Office.
You can also see the Patrons Chapter nearest
you and write them directly (see Patrons
Chapter).
If you are living in any other part of
the world, please contact the Vatican
Office . We would be happy
to provide you with a packet containing
more detailed information. |
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