Naples, Minister Sangiuliano signs the memorandum of understanding on the Albergo dei Poveri

"I know the value and potential of this building, this is a place of great potential."

This was stated by the Minister of Culture, Gennaro Sangiuliano, who today signed a memorandum of understanding with Mayor Gaetano Manfredi for the enhancement and regeneration of the Real Albergo dei Poveri in Naples. An investment of approximately 100 million euros (PNRR funds) is planned and the historic monumental building will be dedicated to hosting a multifunctional cultural center, a second headquarters of the Mann, the archaeological museum, and the national library of Naples with large reading rooms and a conference room with 1000 seats.

By establishing such a facility, "we are creating a beacon that can help young people grow," according to Sangiuliano. The minister urged "entrepreneurs to believe in this area," which extends along the axis from the Mann, passing through the botanical garden, to the Albergo dei Povero and a graduate school at the Federico II University of Naples.

"Let's make a choice for culture: for me, culture is civilization and can bring well-being to the citizens of Naples," the minister continued.

The remaining portion of the building will be used for businesses, particularly for economic activities "important for the sustainability of the structure and for the cultural and tourism development of the area."

Further available areas will be restored and enhanced, following further funding. The MiC has committed to identifying additional resources.

"Today we are laying the first brick," emphasized Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano. "This building has enormous potential and is linked to a happy period in Naples' history. Here we are creating a beacon of spirituality, which will help the young people of Naples grow and strengthen their cultural awareness, because culture is civilization and combats all human degeneration."

Naples Mayor Gaetano Manfredi assures that the Albergo dei Poveri "will soon be reborn" and will be "an extraordinary cultural center, combining museums, advanced training programs, a large public library, a place for reading and thought, but also many spaces open to the city, to associations, and to all of our city's creative initiatives."

The rector of Federico II, Matteo Lorito, explains that the spaces under the jurisdiction of the Neapolitan university "will host lectures, but we are also considering a restoration school, accommodations, and other activities, such as hospitality management courses in the restaurant industry."