Cultural artifacts, or culture artifacts, are objects created by humans, alternatively referred to as archaeologica. According to Italian law, specifically the statutes of 1939 and 1976, fossil finds are also classified within this category. The scientific competencies, rather than the legal aspects, have predominantly transitioned to the respective natural museums, universities, and the employed paleontologists in most regions and provinces of Italy. The "beni archeologici/culturali," as per Italian law, are state property. This implies that while they can be accidentally discovered by private individuals, such discoveries do not automatically confer ownership rights.
Italian law also stipulates that if someone makes a find that might have paleontological interest, they must report it to the relevant state authorities (Department of Cultural Heritage, police, forestry department, Carabinieri, etc.) within 48 hours. This legal context clarified, let's now turn to the practical implementation.
If a fossil or stone is discovered and there are doubts whether it arouses scientific or paleontological interest, the following standardized procedure is outlined:
- The personal details of the discoverer are recorded.
- The found item is retained or a photograph is taken (Note: A scale must be visible).
- The photograph is forwarded to the regional specialist in paleontology.
If, upon examination, it is determined that the found item lacks scientific value, the discoverer could theoretically take it with them. However, they should be mindful that this does not confer ownership rights. The ownership rights remain with the state or our province. Since the find has been reported, the discoverer is legally protected. Items that might be relevant should be taken to the natural history museum for verification. If suspicions are confirmed, scientific findings are stored in the museum's repository. The discoverer can access these findings at any time, provided their information was recorded during the reporting process.