Swiss Fondation Philanthropia named "Grand Mécène de la Culture française"

One of the few Swiss foundations to have been awarded this distinction by the French government, Fondation Philanthropia now enjoys a place among the benefactors of France’s cultural life and heritage. The commitment of Fondation Philanthropia’s clients illustrates the impact of philanthropic action; in this case on maintaining built cultural heritage through the generosity of private funding.

Rima Abdul Malak, French Minister of Culture, commented, "France's heritage is a national and universal asset that would not stand the test of time without the combined efforts of public and private financial support. This distinction affirms France's recognition of Fondation Philanthropia's commitment to the transmission of heritage, as well as artistic skill and craftsmanship."

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In the words of Anne-Marie de Weck, Vice-Chair of Fondation Philanthropia and the Lombard Odier Board of Directors, "Our clients’ philanthropic commitment is an immense source of pride, and we are very grateful for it. In a world of major challenges, it is important to encourage and facilitate action that promotes public good. Restoration of such a cultural and architectural icon as the Palace of Versailles is an excellent example of philanthropic commitment: the impact and power of this act of generosity benefits everyone. The long-standing partnership formed in 2012 by Fondation Philanthropia and the Palace of Versailles has not only allowed three of its essential monuments to be restored, but has also facilitated the transfer of unique skills of artistry and craftsmanship to the next generation."

The Versailles monument restoration projects funded by Fondation Philanthropia have kept many exceptional artistic and restoration skills alive. Whether gilders, glaziers, master glass-makers, stonemasons, painters or restorers, the hundreds of craftspeople involved in the three restoration projects have passed on their skills to dozens of apprentices, ensuring the survival of many rare and precious traditions.

As Catherine Pégard, President of the Palace, Museum and Estate of Versailles, observed, "The Royal Chapel had not seen a complete restoration for 150 years. Now, millions of visitors can admire it, along with the Latona Fountain in all its splendour, thanks to the support of Fondation Philanthropia.

Today, maintaining our heritage is a real challenge, especially for monuments such as those in Versailles, which require major long-term investment over the years. We can only safeguard that heritage and transmit it to future generations with the support of our patrons and the State."

Fondation Philanthropia has provided support totalling around EUR 20 million. EUR 7 million was spent on the Latona Fountain, 1.4 million on the Grand Trianon and 11 million on the Royal Chapel. In addition to these sums, this support has also enabled other major private and corporate patrons to work together to create a leverage effect within large-scale patronage projects, where combined efforts are always more effective.

Fondation Philanthropia: an effective platform for maximum impact

Receiving this honour coincides with Fondation Philanthropia’s 15th anniversary. Since 2008 it has helped Lombard Odier’s clients give concrete form to their philanthropic ambitions. During its 15 years of activity, it has received approximately CHF 140 million in funding and made over 1,300 grants, totalling CHF 75 million, to more than 400 organisations. It has also created over 40 sheltered funds to realise the projects of its clients.

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