ABSTRACT
This chapter address the line that transverses archaeological practice, looting, and the preservation of cultural heritage in the Andes by looking at the historical continuum of looting in the region. I analyze the important differences and consequences that the practice of looting has had on the treatment of archaeological objects, including human remains. Special attention is given to how archaeology and heritage practices are disrupted by the results of looting, and the different strategies that are being enacted to counter those effects at a local and national level. Current international and national legislation on the subject, not only of looting, but also of trading illegally obtained artifacts is summarized and evaluated. The challenges faced by the national and international institutions in charge of enacting such legislation are also discussed, as is what those changes mean for future battles aimed at the protection of heritage in the Andes.
