Anadolu Mecmuası

Abstract

Türkiye has a rich cultural heritage thanks to its geographical location and the civilizations it has hosted throughout history. The fact that cultural heritage is an important element reflecting the identity, history and values of a society has made it imperative to protect cultural heritage and pass it on to future generations. Türkiye is a country with a rich historical heritage; this heritage bears the traces of different civilizations from ancient times to the present day. For this reason, the protection of cultural heritage does not only mean the preservation of historical artifacts, but also the return of cultural heritage that has been smuggled from the lands where it belongs and the re-establishment of the lost ties of these artifacts is very important for our country. Türkiye has taken important steps to combat the smuggling of cultural heritage and to protect and economize this heritage. In this context, Türkiye has developed legal regulations by cooperating internationally for the return of historical artifacts smuggled abroad and the protection of cultural heritage. Türkiye’s efforts to combat trafficking in cultural heritage and to preserve it for the future are critical for both the preservation of national identity and economic development. In line with this importance, Türkiye has taken the necessary steps by setting targets in its economic development plan to protect cultural heritage and bring it into the economy. Within the scope of these steps, it is aimed to exhibit the artifacts where they belong and to bring them to the national economy and to ensure sustainable development. Museology activities were improved and smuggled historical artifacts were exhibited in Türkiye. Thus, the number of visitors to museums and archaeological sites has increased and Türkiye’s cultural richness has been promoted and economic income has been generated.