This essay examines the institutional role of museums in preserving cultural heritage. Focusing on the evolution of museology worldwide and local-cultural features as well, it demonstrates that the concept of conserving cultural heritage extends beyond the physical preservation and restoration of museum objects. Museums, as social institutions, have a broad responsibility to conserve the cultural and social values of artifacts. By emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to cultural heritage, this essay shows that the preservation of a museum object is not limited to technical actions, but also includes understanding its cultural and social values, appropriate interpretation, and connection with the community. Moreover, the importance of education and public awareness about cultural heritage to create a sense of belonging and sustainable preservation is emphasized.

An Urartian cuneiform rock inscription was reported in March 2021 in Gharejelou, close to Shahverdi Gheshlagh village, Eastern Azerbaijan Province, Iran. This site has been previously surveyed and also the legal excavations took place. The epigraphy of the inscription belongs to the first years ofUrartian reign and the last half of it. As the close by Urartian inscriptions belong to Argishti II it is possible that this inscription as well was written in the same era. The inscription is badly damaged mainly by sediment. The damages make the actual reading of the inscription almost impossible. This contribution is also presented at the Conference of Van Museum as Urartu and Beyond and will be published in the conference book.