The basis for this decision was the relationship of mutual trust and esteem that had developed between Federico Zeri, the scholar Anna Ottani Cavina and the University of Bologna.
On 6 February 1998 the Bologna University Rector, Fabio Roversi Monaco, had conferred on Zeri an honorary degree in History of Art.
1999
Bologna University created the Fondazione Federico Zeri, recognised by the Ministry for the Cultural Heritage on 12 September 2000. The President was Rector Fabio Roversi Monaco.
2001-2010
The Presidency of the Foundation passed to the new Rector Pier Ugo Calzolari, who took some strategic decisions and secured resources on a large scale with which to launch the scientific activity.
2001
Anna Ottani Cavina was appointed Director of the Foundation, where she remained until 2014.
2006
The Foundation's Bologna premises were inaugurated in the Renaissance Convent of Santa Cristina, which also houses the University Department of Visual Arts.
2008
The Zeri Library and Photo Archive were opened to the public.
2010
Rector Ivano Dionigi took over the Presidency.
2014
Andrea Bacchi was appointed Director of the Foundation.
2015
Rector Francesco Ubertini took over the Presidency.
Anna Ottani Cavina was appointed honorary President.