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Testamentary bequests

Supporting the Bhaktivedanta Study Center beyond one’s lifetime

"The physical body is certainly destined for destruction, but the spiritual being is immeasurable and eternal; therefore, have faith in the continuity of life."

BG.II.18

How to Make a Bequest: Forms of Wills

An increasing number of people are choosing to leave a testamentary bequest to the Centro Studi Bhaktivedanta APS, transforming their legacy into a concrete act of cultural and spiritual continuity.

To formalize this decision, the legal system provides two methods: the holographic will—written entirely in one’s own hand, dated, and signed—and the public will, drawn up with the assistance of a notary in the presence of two witnesses to ensure the highest level of formal certainty. Both options allow for the free allocation of movable property, real estate, or sums of money, while fully respecting the mandatory shares (reserved portions) established by law.

Sea at sunset with seagulls flying in the foreground

The holographic will

This refers to a will written out entirely by hand.

  • There must be no erasures, and all words must be clear and legible.
  • It cannot be typed or created using a computer.
  • It cannot be written by anyone else, even if dictated.
  • The document must include the date, a full signature, and the testator’s first and last name.
  • It is advisable to prepare three handwritten copies: one to be deposited with a trusted notary, one to be given to a trusted individual, and one to be kept in a secure location.
Hands exchanging flowers

Examples of a holographic will

Immagine di esempio di testamento olografo
Immagine di esempio di testamento olografo

What kind of assets can I leave?

Within the limits of the law, individuals are free to decide to whom and in what manner they wish to distribute their assets. A will is the only legal instrument that allows a person to determine, while still alive, who will receive their property—whether real estate, movable assets, or money. It is not necessary to dispose of one’s entire estate; one may also designate specific assets for particular recipients.

Can I make a will?

Anyone who has reached the age of majority and is of sound mind and capable of making decisions may draw up a will. Even individuals with physical impairments who are unable to sign a document may make a will, provided they are assisted by a notary in the presence of two witnesses.
It is always possible to amend a will at a later date, should circumstances change or specific events occur.

If you would like to learn more and/or have decided to make a bequest—even a small one—to the Bhaktivedanta Study Center, you can write to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Centro Studi Bhaktivedanta

Via Manzoni 9/A, 56038, Ponsacco, PI.
(+39) 0587 733730
(+39) 320 3264838
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Via Manzoni 9/A, 56038, Ponsacco, PI.
(+39) 0587 733730
(+39) 320 3264838
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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