States and discusses the aims of the conference, first refining the concept of <i>in situ</i> as it has come to be used in the context of conservation, (away from its narrowest application in geology), then explaining how the topics covered came to be selected and grouped. Briefly outlines the contribution of the individual papers, shows their relationship to each other, paralleling and contrasting the role and aims of the archaeologist and of the conservator, with a view to promoting better cooperation among the professions involved in preserving the cultural heritage. -- AATA