Protecting the Archaeological Heritage of Italy: the CPAC Review

Later this week members of the Cultural Property Advisory Committee (CPAC) will be considering submissions relating to the extension of the MOU with Italy. The committee will be able to affirm its support for the Italian authorities in their work to protect the variety of cultural heritage in that country. Most museums and private collectors are now aware that it is unethical to collect recently surfaced archaeological objects. The 130 objects returned to Italy had each been ripped from contexts that can never be reconstructed. The Italian authorities have been generous in the willingness to loan material back to North American institutions. CPAC now has the opportunity to strengthen the ties between the US and Italy, and to build on the present co-operation.

• The AIA on the renewal of the Italian MOU
• The AIA's earlier presentation to CPAC
• The CPAC review of Article II of the MOU