
Data sheet
Name: Monument for Sally Mayer
Location: expansion, no. 1-2
Author: Manfredo d’Urbino (architect)
Construction date: 1954, 1971
Sally Mayer (1875-1953) was an influential paper industrialist born in Worms, Germany. Through his wife, Matilde Vita (1884-1970), he acquired the Vita Brothers paper mill in Cairate (VA), which was renamed Vita Mayer. Thanks to Sally’s work, the paper mill experienced rapid growth after World War I. During this period, the company began producing disposable paper products, such as tissues and sanitary pads, which quickly became popular. During the Nazi occupation, Mayer and his family sought refuge in Switzerland, where he continued to assist Jewish refugees. Upon his return to Italy, Vita Mayer’s production resumed swiftly, aided by the good condition of the facilities and Marshall Plan support.
Sally was the first president of the Jewish Community of Milan after World War II, overseeing refugee assistance, the reconstruction of the Temple in Via Guastalla, the reopening of the school in Via Eupili, and the retirement home in Via Jommelli. After his death, his son Astorre (1906-1977) took over the family business, significantly contributing to the State of Israel, where he served as honorary consul, and to Milanese Jewry, promoting the construction of the new Jewish school. His diplomatic work was invaluable during a particularly turbulent period in relations between the Church and the State of Israel.