The Fondation du Patrimoine, created by a French law on 2 July 1996, is a private, non‑profit organization recognized as being of public utility. Its mission is to safeguard and enhance France’s “patrimoine de proximité” — the vast landscape of rural, religious, and industrial heritage that is often unprotected and at risk of disappearing. Structured around regional delegations largely composed of volunteers, the foundation identifies endangered sites, raises awareness among local actors, and supports restoration projects through financial mechanisms and public engagement.

To fulfill this mission, the foundation grants a special heritage label that allows property owners to benefit from significant tax deductions when undertaking restoration work. It also organizes public fundraising campaigns, corporate sponsorship initiatives, and participatory financing operations. In recent years, the foundation has played a central role in mobilizing national support for emblematic sites — from rural chapels to historic mills — and benefits from a share of the proceeds of the “Loto du Patrimoine,” which has become a major driver of heritage preservation across France.

Its impact is visible nationwide: tens of thousands of monuments, many in critical condition, have been supported through donations, volunteer work, and regional programs. Recent initiatives include the “Patrimoine et Tourisme local” program, which has funded over 215 restoration projects since 2022, revitalizing rural territories and strengthening local economies. The foundation’s work continues to grow, with record fundraising levels and increasing participation from individuals and businesses committed to preserving France’s cultural and architectural legacy.