Starting in 2026, Italy will evaluate cultural heritage assets under ministerial restrictions based on their actual value of use, thanks to a reform that will change the accounting treatment of artistic and cultural assets. In practice, the idea is to consider beauty as a tool for sustainable growth and improving quality of life.

Italy holds about 40% of the world’s artistic heritage, and according to a recent study, the beauty ecosystem contributes 26.1% to the national GDP. The evaluation of cultural assets changes based on the time perspective. Traditionally, value was based on historical cost, meaning the expenses incurred for maintenance or construction of cultural works.