March 25, 2025
Dear Esteemed Friends,
With profound appreciation and a deep sense of duty, I embrace the honor of serving as President of the Friends of the Uffizi Galleries. It is a privilege to follow in the footsteps of our cherished Contessa Maria Vittoria, whose unwavering dedication and vision have shaped this organization. As Contessa Maria Vittoria assumes the distinguished title of Honorary President for Life, we embrace her enduring legacy and the path she has so elegantly paved.
In 2026, we celebrate our momentous 20th anniversary, and I eagerly anticipate commemorating this milestone alongside you. In 2025, I warmly invite you to join us this October for our 9th Florentine Cultural Weekend, a singular opportunity to witness the extraordinary restorations made possible by your generosity. This year, we will be graciously welcomed by the Uffizi Galleries’ new director, Simone Verde, who shares our passion for safeguarding and enhancing this magnificent institution. His ambitious vision—including a reimagined entryway, a dedicated children’s space, and the revitalization of the Boboli Amphitheater—heralds, an exciting new chapter for the Uffizi which we are honored to support.
Our organization’s heart lies in its devotion to Florence’s cultural treasures. Your steadfast commitment has ensured the preservation not only of the Uffizi but also of the Palazzo Pitti and its resplendent museums and gardens. Beyond conservation, we cultivate a deeper appreciation for these masterpieces through exclusive visits, insightful lectures, and gatherings that unite us in our shared passion for the arts.
I extend my deepest gratitude for your enduring support and look forward to an inspiring year ahead—one filled with camaraderie, discovery, and the timeless beauty of Florence.
With warmest regards,
Lisa Marie Conte Browne
