Published in April 2019, a proposal for a new legislative decree addresses the management and use of archaeological artifacts held in storage at Italian museums and depositories under the supervision of the Ministry of Cultural Heritage. The proposal suggests that these artifacts, currently not prepared for public exhibition, could be loaned to significant international museums, cultural institutions, or nations for display through temporary exhibitions and loans lasting between 10 and 20 years.
Framework and Implementation
The initiative would operate through a competitive bidding process. Archaeological artifacts would be organized into multiple lists and groups according to current scientific dating. Winning bidders would enter into written agreements specifying loan duration, protection standards, and conservation measures during the loan period, in exchange for a substantial financial contribution.
Revenue generated from these arrangements would be managed by a dedicated fund at the Ministry of Cultural Heritage. These funds would be allocated to finance projects for archaeological excavations, maintenance, and conservation of national archaeological sites.
Administrative Structure
The proposal calls for establishing a dedicated department responsible for identifying and cataloging artifacts suitable for the program. This department would comprise 21 archaeologists—one assigned to each Italian region—plus a central coordinating archaeologist who oversees and manages the entire network.
Frequently asked questions
How long can artifacts be loaned under this proposal?
Archaeological artifacts can be loaned for periods of either 10 or 20 years, as agreed upon in written agreements between the Ministry and winning bidders.
Where would revenue from the program be directed?
Funds generated through the bidding process would be managed by a dedicated fund at the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and allocated to finance excavation projects and conservation and maintenance of national archaeological sites.
How would artifacts be selected for the program?
Artifacts would be organized into multiple lists and groups according to current scientific dating, then made available through a competitive bidding process for qualified international institutions.
