By Chloe Ghaleb
The beating heart of the Spanish polity is a proud and multilayered culture. Modern Spain derives from deep historical traditions that encompass millennia of different empires, religions, and flashpoint events. Its historical traditions are reflected in Spain's landmarks, religious sites, and artistic legacies, which are integral elements of its national heritage. In recognition of its rich history, Spain’s constitution holds a promise to protect its heritage:
“The public authorities shall guarantee the conservation and promote the enrichment of the historical, cultural and artistic heritage of the peoples of Spain and of the property of which it consists, regardless of its legal status and its ownership. Offences committed against this heritage shall be punished under criminal law.”[1]
Despite occasionally failing to live up to this solemn oath, Spain regularly enforces its heritage laws with notable implications for the art market, including with the fate of works by the Old Masters.
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