Carabinieri Command for the Protection of Cultural Property

Known for rigorous investigation, dedicated officers of the Carabinieri Command for the Protection of Cultural Property (Carabinieri TPC) have recovered thousands of objects and have built cases resulting in high-profile repatriations of cultural property from museums and collectors all over the world, effectively shifting an art market paradigm that previously depended on theft and criminal behavior. Italy is a nation that highly values its ancient past along with its artistic present, and these values have created the premier police force in the world dedicated to law enforcement regarding the arts, heritage, and archaeology. As the dedicated officers of the TPC work to protect every aspect of Italy's rich cultural heritage, their organization, training, approach, missions, and success offer valuable lessons for all who share the goal of protecting and recovering cultural property. This book offers the first full-length study of the institution, tracing its history from its establishment in 1969, looking at how it is run, and the work it does. Laurie Rush is a Board Member of the US Committee of the Blue Shield, and employed as an archaeologist by the US army; Luisa Benedettini Millington is a Faculty member of the Community College of Vermont, US,