ICOMOS, an abbreviation for the International Council on Monuments and Sites, is a non-governmental organization dedicated to the conservation and protection of cultural heritage worldwide. It serves as a global network of professionals and experts in the field of cultural heritage, including architects, archaeologists, historians, and planners.
ICOMOS was founded in 1965 and operates in adherence to the principles established in the International Charter for the Conservation and Restoration of Monuments and Sites (the Venice Charter) and the International Charter for the Protection and Management of Cultural Heritage Sites (the Nara Charter). It works closely with UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, in the implementation of its objectives.
The primary mission of ICOMOS is to promote the conservation and preservation of cultural heritage sites and monuments. It seeks to foster international cooperation, exchange of knowledge, research, and training in the field of conservation. ICOMOS also provides advice, expertise, and guidance to governments, international organizations, and local communities on matters related to cultural heritage conservation.
ICOMOS operates through its numerous national committees and local groups that carry out projects and activities at regional and national levels. These committees work towards the identification, documentation, and protection of cultural heritage sites, as well as monitoring and evaluating their conditions. ICOMOS also organizes conferences, workshops, and training programs to promote awareness and understanding of cultural heritage conservation.
In summary, ICOMOS is an international organization dedicated to the preservation and safeguarding of cultural heritage sites and monuments through advocacy, research, and collaboration.
