The aim of the Convention signed in Valletta on January 16, 1992 is to protect the archaeological heritage as a source of the European collective memory and as an instrument for historical and scientific study.
The European Convention does not affect existing or future bilateral or multilateral treaties between Parties thereto, concerning the illicit circulation of elements of the archaeological heritage or their restitution to the rightful owner.
Under item 2, article 14 of the Convention, no party to the European Convention on the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage, signed in London on May 6, 1969, may deposit its instrument of ratification, acceptance or approval unless it has already denounced the said Convention or denounces it simultaneously.