The First Conference of Architects and Specialists in Historical Buildings was held in Paris in 1957. It resulted in a recommendation for all members of UNESCO to participate in the International Centre for the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property. The second conference, held in 1964, led to the Charter of Venice (the International Charter on the Conservation and Restoration of Monuments and Sites). This internationally recognised document described how restorations should be carried out. This was followed in 1965 by the establishment of ICOMOS (International Council on Monuments and Sites), a worldwide Paris-based organisation with more than 7,500 members.

ICOMOS aims at international cooperation in the preservation and management of cultural heritage. The expertise of specialists in various disciplines is pivotal. ICOMOS focuses particularly on ‘monuments’, ‘groups of structures’ and ‘areas in which cultural and natural characteristics are of joint importance’.

ICOMOS is one of two advisory bodies for cultural heritage that support the World Heritage Committee, the other one being ICCROM. As an independent, non-governmental organisation, ICOMOS provides professional appraisal of and advice on the cultural and mixed heritage of sites listed on the Tentative List. This leads to advice and recommendations on possible inscription on the World Heritage List. ICOMOS also contributes to periodic reporting and monitoring concerning existing sites and provides assistance with respect to conservation and the Global Strategy.

ICOMOS International Secretariat
49-51, Rue de la Fédération
75015 Paris
France
Phone: +33 (0)1 45 67 67 70
Fax: +33 (0)1 45 66 06 22
Email: secretariat@icomos.org email: secretariat@icomos.org