ICCROM – International Centre for the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property

ICCROM is an international intergovernmental organisation set up in Rome in 1959 by the 9th UNESCO General Conference in 1956 (www.iccrom.org). Its mission consists of research, consulting, the dissemination of knowledge and practices, assistance and training in the conservation and restoration of cultural treasures. It currently has 130 members. By virtue of an agreement ratified by the Italian government in 1960, ICCROM set up headquarters in the San Michele a Ripa complex, which became its definitive headquarters in late 2006 by provision of the Ministry of Cultural Assets and Activities.

ICCROM is today legally recognised as an independent organisation legally distinct from UNESCO, of which it was formerly a subsidiary. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs makes an annual compulsory contribution through its Directorate General for Cultural Promotion and Cooperation, and voluntary contributions through its Directorate General for Development Cooperation. The Ministry of Cultural Assets and Activities provides for the ordinary maintenance of the building that houses the organisation.

The 27th ICCROM General Assembly (Rome, 14-16 November 2011) elected archaeologist Prof. Stefano De Caro Director General for the 2012-2016 quadrennial, the first Italian to hold the position.