In autumn 2020, Storm Alex devastated the heritage of the communes in the Valleys of Roya, Vésubie, and the Haut-Pays. It severely impacted many homes and public buildings. A high number of total destructions or irreversible damages were reported.
The historical heritage, including religious heritage, apparently withstood the storm, as no monument was swept away. Much of this heritage is remarkable for its characteristics and rarity: of “Ligurian Baroque” style, it can only be found in this part of France.
To assist these communes and undertake the most urgent repair work, the Heritage Foundation is launching a national appeal for public generosity.
The donations collected will support a relief fund that will be distributed to the most affected communes. Beyond the hopeful message it sends to the entire population, the swift commencement of restoration work represents a major economic issue. It will provide work for local craftsmen, art professions, and companies specializing in heritage restoration.
In addition, the tourism attractiveness of this area is one of its essential resources. It is urgent to reopen the doors of this heritage to visitors as soon as possible.
The allocation of collected funds will be done in close consultation with the Drac (Regional Directorate of Cultural Affairs), the Alpes-Maritimes Department, the Nice-Côte d’Azur Metropolis, and the intercommunalities of the Alpes-Maritimes.
Saint-Michel-de-Gast Church in Roquebillière © UDAP 06.
