UNESCO

This document, adopted by the General Conference of UNESCO in 1956, establishes international principles governing the protection and excavation of archaeological sites. The document recommends that member states:

• make all archaeological exploration and excavation subject to prior authorization;
• make security, maintenance and conservation of the site and its associated objects part of the deed of concession to excavate;
• require any person who discovers archaeological remains to declare them to a competent authority;
• establish a state archaeological administration to document activity and finds;
• undertake educational efforts to promote respect for remains of the past;
• supervise the restoration of archaeological remains; and
• prohibit the removal of monuments without consent.

The Recommendation is not legally binding, but often has served as a model for national legislation governing excavation.