არქეოლოგიური მემკვიდრეობის დაცვის ევროპული კონვენცია

This European Heritage document aims to protect and preserve the archaeological heritage of Europe and enhance conservation by encouraging expert exchanges and comparison of experience. At the heart of the convention is the protection of the archaeological heritage as a source of the European collective memory and as a tool for historical and scientific studies. All elements of such heritage, including structures, constructions, groups of buildings, and moveable objects located anywhere in European countries, are to be included for preservation.

Each country party must create a legal system to protect and preserve archaeological heritage by instituting means appropriate to the State, including inventory maintenance of monuments and areas and mandatory reporting for the examination of the archaeological heritage. Other measures included creating archaeological reserves for the preservation of evidence and instituting regulations regarding the excavation of archaeological sites.

The document stresses that the responsibility for the protection of the archaeological heritage should not solely depend on the State directly concerned but also on all European countries to avoid deterioration and promote conservation. The document noted the necessity to complete the principles of the European Convention for the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage signed in London on 6 May 1969, as a result of evolution of planning policies in European countries.

This document is a vital contribution to the field of European Heritage, exploring the importance of protecting and preserving archaeological heritage for the collective benefit of European citizens. The guidelines and regulations outlined provide specific, concrete actions that individual and state actors can take to ensure the preservation of essential cultural artefacts. The document’s comprehensive coverage of archaeological elements and associated structural and constructional aspects within the European context helps to underline the importance of governmental initiatives and collaboration across Europe to preserve and protect artifacts that represent our cultural past.