Protection of Cultural Heritage

The Stiftung Preussischer Kulturbesitz protects the cultural property in its possession in various special ways. It is also actively involved in many projects and partnerships for the protection of cultural heritage worldwide.

Ruins of the ancient city of Palmyra in Syria (Opens a larger version of the image)

All around the world, cultural property is threatened by destruction, theft, and illicit trade © Directorate-General of Antiquities and Museums, Damascus

The collections of the Stiftung Preussischer Kulturbesitz (Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation) form part of the cultural heritage of mankind. The protection of cultural property is therefore a key mission for all of the Foundation's institutions. The objects in the collections are preserved, safeguarded, and recorded digitally.

The Foundation also contributes actively to the protection of cultural property in the countries where the items in its collections originate. Unauthorized excavations and illicit trade threaten cultural heritage throughout the world. The Foundation is committed to having clear import and export regulations.

Third-party funding is often obtained for the protection of cultural heritage. In addition, the Foundation depends upon people's personal support in order to be able to preserve valuable works of art, manuscripts or printed documents, and audio recordings.

Preservation of Objects

© SPK / Pierre Adenis

The Foundation takes great pains to preserve the objects in its possession. It records its collections in digital form and employs highly specialized restorers. Its research methods are in demand worldwide. more

Sustainable Protection of Cultural Heritage in the Countries of Origin

© Staatliche Museen zu Berlin – Vorderasiatisches Museum / Olaf M. Teßmer

The Foundation works to sustainably protect cultural assets in countries of origin as well. It runs various projects for capacity building: providing training for local experts so they are better able to undertake it themselves. more

Protection Against Illegal Excavations and Trafficking

© Comando Carabinieri Tutela Patrimonio Culturale

The Foundation works with international partners to help protect cultural property against crime. Antiquities, in particular, are seriously threatened by illegal excavations and trafficking. more

Links for Additional Information

Interpol: „The Most Wanted Works of Art“

If you have information concerning the whereabouts of the artworks / cultural property, or any other information that may lead to their recovery, please contact the crime response unit of the Federal Criminal Police Office in Wiesbaden or any other station. more