International Council on Monuments and Sites

The International Council on Monuments and Sites is a global professional organization based in Paris that focuses on protecting and documenting historical sites. This institution coordinates a network of experts from many countries to share knowledge about restoration techniques and conservation methods.

The organization was founded in 1965 and is based on principles from the Venice Charter, an important 1964 document about monument restoration. This founding established standards that guide heritage work worldwide today.

ICOMOS shapes how monuments and archaeological sites are treated and protected around the world. The organization develops guidelines that support professionals in maintaining historical buildings and places.

The Documentation Center at the organization's Paris headquarters gathers information and professional materials on conservation methods. Visitors and professionals can access extensive archives there to familiarize themselves with best practices for preservation.

The organization officially advises UNESCO when evaluating candidates for the World Heritage list. This advisory role makes it an influential voice in deciding which sites receive global protection status.

Location: Paris

Inception: 1965

Website: https://icomos.org/fr

GPS coordinates: 48.82119,2.40508

Latest update: December 20, 2025 11:40