Cultural artefacts, also called archaeological finds, are objects made by humans. According to Italian law (acts from 1939 and 1976), fossils are also considered part of the country’s cultural heritage. Scientific supervision and research of such findings are generally the responsibility of natural history museums, universities, and their paleontologists.
Under Italian law, “beni archeologici” or “beni culturali” are state property. This means that even if private individuals discover such objects by chance, they do not become the owners. Fossils that may be of paleontological interest must be reported to the relevant state authorities such as the heritage office, the police, or the Carabinieri within 48 hours.
Under Italian law, “beni archeologici” or “beni culturali” are state property. This means that even if private individuals discover such objects by chance, they do not become the owners. Fossils that may be of paleontological interest must be reported to the relevant state authorities such as the heritage office, the police, or the Carabinieri within 48 hours.