Welcome to the website, and thanks for taking the time to stop by and find out more about what we do. The mission of the Count of Monte Alea Foundation is to improve the quality of elementary and high school education in rural areas of the world. We view education as the cornerstone for reducing poverty, accelerating economic growth, and improvement of the overall quality of life. Particular emphasis is placed on remote locations where access to infrastructure and technology is limited. Our programs are directed mainly to locations in the south of Chile, small villages in the Peruvian Andes, and the Principality of Asturias in northern Spain. Hence, the Foundation awards grant to qualified institutions to accomplish its objectives.
Understanding our own history and cultural legacy is important. It allows us to better plan our future. Thus, the Foundation also desires to promote the study and defense of the artistic and cultural patrimony of the Principality of Asturias. This is the birthplace of modern Spain and the land of my ancestors, who lived in the village of Monte Alea for more than three hundred years as Hijosdalgos, the ancient nobility of Asturias. To accomplish these aims, the Foundation organizes workshops, contributes to the restoration of ancient heraldic arms, and publication of original research as pertains to heraldry, genealogy, and medieval history in collaboration with other qualified organizations.
The Count of Monte Alea Foundation was created as a family organization, to give back what society has given to me during my professional and personal life. During my career as a scientist, teacher, and executive, I have learned that institutions are built step by step, with excellence and without "cutting corners". Proof that we are on the right track is that the 2012 National Spanish Award for Patronage of Historical Studies was given to the Foundation by the Federación Española de Genealogía, Heráldica y Ciencias Históricas. This is a great honor that motivates us to continue our mission of preserving our cultural and historical heritage as well as providing the means to improve rural education. The Foundation takes its name from the honorific title bestowed to the founder by the last king of Rwanda HM Kigeli V for services to the royal house and advice on science and technology education. The title has been ratified by the head of the Royal House of Georgia in Spain.
Thanks again. I hope you find this website interesting and informative, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Bernardo Perez de Buerres Ramirez President
Rural village in Amazonas. Photo by Marie-Noelle del Alamo
Carta Ejecutoria de Hidalguia. Valladolid, 1574 (Archivo Perez de Buerres)