Tod’s to fund restoration of Milan’s City Hall

Tod’s once again demonstrates its commitment as a patron of Italian heritage. Having previously contributed 25 million euros for the Colosseum’s restoration in 2021, the Italian footwear brand is set to finance the refurbishment of another significant monument, this time in Milan. The undertaking concerns Palazzo Marino, a historical palace constructed in the 15th century by architect Galeazzo Alessi. Since 1861, it has served as the seat of Milan’s municipal administration.

Diego Della Valle’s luxury group secured the bid launched by the city council last April, triumphing over three other competing firms. The restoration project encompasses all exterior facades and internal courtyard structures, featuring porticoes and loggias, of this mannerist architectural gem. This former private mansion, erected in 1523 by a Genoese banking family, stands prominently at Piazza della Scala, directly facing Milan’s renowned opera house. In total, over 5,345 square meters of facades are slated for restoration, as outlined by the city council in a statement, estimating the cost of the works to exceed 2.5 million euros.

“The works are expected to commence as soon as possible and last for nearly 16 months. We are delighted to support this significant and tangible project for the city and restore to the people of Milan their iconic building’s former splendor, which they consider as their own,” stated Tod’s CEO, Diego Della Valle, during a conference at the brand’s Milan headquarters. “We have consistently advocated for the collaboration between the public and private sectors. Our role as entrepreneurs today extends beyond our activities within the company. It’s also about having a certain social awareness,” he emphasized.

“Given the current adverse economic climate, the corporate world must aid the public and engage in useful and supportive projects. We must address societal issues and assist those in need. Never before has this commitment been as crucial as it is today. It’s also a way to bolster our credibility and promote the visibility of ‘Made in Italy’ globally,” he continued, urging other entrepreneurs “to participate in necessary projects, beyond merely criticizing what doesn’t work.”

The renowned Italian company, famous for its studded loafers, notably intervened after the earthquake that struck the regions of Marche, Umbria, and Lazio in 2016. In less than a year, Tod’s established a new factory in Arquata del Tronto, one of the most devastated villages by the seismic event.