The 8th Chemistry for Cultural Heritage Conference (ChemCH 2026) took place in Bled, Slovenia, from 8-11 June, under the patronage of the UNESCO National Commission. Organised under the umbrella of the EuChemS Working Party on Chemistry for Cultural Heritage, ChemCH is the flagship conference of the Working Party and a key European forum for advancing the role of chemistry in the study, conservation, and sustainable management of cultural heritage.
Held biannually since 2010, ChemCH promotes the contribution of chemical sciences to understanding the materiality, environment, and use of cultural heritage in all its forms – from objects and buildings to landscapes and archaeological materials. The 2026 edition reflected the highly interdisciplinary nature of the field, with contributions spanning advanced analytical techniques, conservation science, data science, artificial intelligence, digital twins, and sustainable approaches to heritage protection.
This year’s programme brought together scientists, conservators, museum representatives, heritage professionals, and policymakers from across Europe and beyond. A high-level roundtable highlighted the impact of scientific research in heritage organisations, with participation from leading museums, libraries, UNESCO representatives, and cultural heritage institutions worldwide.
EuChemS thanks the organisers for including EuChemS welcome words in the book of abstract and for invitation to welcome the participants on behalf of EuChemS. EuChemS recognises also the importance of supporting scientific events that strengthen collaboration across disciplines and connect chemistry with societal needs. Through the activities of its Working Party on Chemistry for Cultural Heritage, and its presence at recognised events such as ChemCH, EuChemS continues to promote the essential role of chemistry in preserving and understanding cultural heritage for future generations.
The conference provided an inspiring platform for scientific exchange, new collaborations, and reflection on the future of chemistry in cultural heritage protection across Europe and globally.
