The International Art and Heritage Law database provides a survey of current national legislation for the protection of cultural heritage in the 27 member states of the European Union and their participation in international (UNESCO and UNIDROIT) and regional (EU and Council of Europe) instruments in the field. It provides links to the full texts of treaties, constitutional provisions and laws covering movable and immovable, tangible and intangible cultural heritage and language.
Where available the laws have been provided in English translation. Otherwise they are reproduced in their original language.
The website is designed to facilitate research in the field of cultural heritage law, particularly as it relates to Europe. Formal verification and updated information on these treaties and national laws can be obtained from the relevant international organisations and national ministries of culture. Their contact details are provided in our Links.
The Cultural Heritage Law in Europe project was jointly funded by the European Commission’s Marie Curie FP6 Action (No.MIF1-CT-2006-021861) and the Academy of European Law, European University Institute.
Last updated: July 2010