The 'modern' era of the Bell began with Pietro Monti, President since 1984 for almost twenty years. His vision was clear: symbols only exist if they can address the people of all ages. The Bell of the Fallen, under his presidency, learned to speak not only to battle veterans, but also to NGO workers everywhere, to peace mediators in the Balkans, to leaders of all religions, to young people who saw globalisation as a challenge and a risk. Since then, the daily tolling of the Bell is no longer just a reminder of the past, but an invitation to interpret the present in the light of human rights, dialogue and coexistence between peoples.
After Pietro Monti, it was Alberto Robol’s turn. Elected on 10 July 2003, he stayed in office until 2020, further broadening the international perspective of the Bell, by obtaining observer status at the United Nations and the Council of Europe, and building the location that currently houses Maria Dolens. He himself summarised his vision: "If the Bell is the Bell of Peace, Peace also means justice, defence of human rights, international solidarity, cooperation.
The Bell is not merely a nostalgic reminder of the city of Rovereto; it is the very essence of the community as it develops, the symbol of a city that has grown through the power of spirit, continuously seeking progress in both human and cultural dimensions. The Bell also embodies the continuous pursuit of knowledge and ideals, always oriented toward higher values and a universal vision, guided by the dual principle of memory and hope”.
The current President of the Foundation is Ambassador Marco Marsilli, who draws on decades of diplomatic experience in various countries to guide the organisation with a pragmatic approach—grounded in careful, in-depth analysis of international issues and the formulation of concrete proposals for resolving crises. At the same time, he has strengthened relations with local institutions to ensure a greater and more active presence of the Foundation within the community. This dual path of international engagement and local commitment is also reflected in the editorial direction of the monthly magazine “La Voce di Maria Dolens”. Strongly supported by the President, the magazine is published online free of charge in both Italian and English, with the aim of sharing what takes place on the Miravalle Pass while also offering reflections on global crises.
