What is considered cultural property in Jordan?
The cultural property includes objects of paleontological, pre- and early historical, numismatic interest, manuscripts, autographs, letters, incunabula, books, prints, engravings and matrices, maps, scores, photographs, film strips, sound and image carriers as well as immovable objects. Some objects are under special protection, for example works of art created more than 70 years ago by artists who are no longer alive, photos and films older than 25 years, as well as over 75-year-old means of transport and over 50-year-old goods, equipment and instruments of historical, scientific or technical interest.
What are the export regulations?
For cultural property created before 1750, there is a general export ban, as well as a trade ban. Exceptions are possible for loans or the exchange of property with museums and scientific or archaeological institutions. The Antiquities Department may conclude loan agreements with academic institutions and museums, but not with individuals.
What sanctions are there?
There are prison sentences of one to three years and fines of 3,000 Jordanian dinars or more for trafficking, smuggling or damaging antiquities, making copies and selling imitations as originals.
