The Milan Triennale is an Italian State institution which, together with the Municipality of Milan and the Lombardy Region, is charged with preserving and promoting Italian Design as well as carrying out research in framework programs focusing on town planning, architecture, handicrafts, industrial production, fashion, new media, etc. In its long history, the Milan Triennale has always followed developments in the field of applied arts; from the thirties to the post-war years, during the reconstruction years and the country's economic miracle and later during the economic and energy crisis of the seventies. Since the eighties, Milan has increasingly become an international centre of design. The Triennale played a leading role in organizing important qualitative events that have enhanced the city's image. The Triennale also helped organize the foundation for the Museum of Design. To achieve its goals, the Milan Triennale has established its own Research Centre and a Permanent Collection of Italian Design.