Royal Commission on Historical Monuments

British conservation organization

Also known as: RCHM

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

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The Royal Commission on Historical Monuments (RCHM) was a British organization established in 1908. Its primary role was to conduct systematic inventories and surveys of historical buildings and sites across Britain, identifying those worthy of protection. This effort was a crucial step in the broader movement for architectural conservation, which gained momentum in the late 19th and 20th centuries. The RCHM's work contributed to the legal frameworks that enabled the preservation of architectural heritage, such as the Civic Amenities Act of 1967 in Great Britain.1

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art conservation and restoration
Role of law
…Great Britain, for example, the Royal Commission on Historical Monuments (RCHM) was set up in 1908, and the Civic Amenities Act of 1967 enabled local planning authorities to define special areas for “conservation and enhancement.” In France, the Commission des Secteurs Sauvegardés was set up in 1962 under André Malraux,…
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…Great Britain, for example, the Royal Commission on Historical Monuments (RCHM) was set up in 1908, and the Civic Amenities Act of 1967 enabled local planning authorities to define special areas for “conservation and enhancement.” In France, the Commission des Secteurs Sauvegardés was set up in 1962 under André Malraux,…
Read More