Cultural Artifacts
It is a crime to remove antiquities from Türkiye. All national parks and historic sites such as fortresses, castles and ruins, and everything in them or on their grounds, are the property of the government of Türkiye. Individuals should check with local authorities if they intend to purchase or transport any article which may be considered a cultural artifact. One may buy certain antiquities, but they must include a museum certificate, and can only be purchased from authorized dealers. Offenders are prosecuted and if convicted, sentences may range from five to ten years.