The Association of the Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (BPBI) was founded in 2002 on the initiative of the mayors of 50 small municipalities in order to safeguard and enhance the architectural, urban, artistic and cultural heritage of the small villages and historic centres of which Italy is rich. It is affiliated to the ANCI (National Association of Italian Municipalities) and today brings together 200 municipalities, selected according to the criteria set out in the "quality charter" prepared by the Scientific Committee.