Welcome to the National Institute of Culture and History in Belize, a statutory body which seeks to encourage Belizeans and persons interested in Belize to better understand our historical and ethnic roots and instill pride in ourselves about our country's unique cultural heritage and shared national identity.

NICH was created by the Government of Belize in 2003 to bring together diverse government departments, which had historically worked to preserve and promote Belizean culture; and, to allow for the management of newer endeavours.

We are committed to the preservation of Belize's ancient and historical era monuments and artifacts; the exhibition and interpretation of Belize's documented, photographic and oral history and the promotion of contemporary performing, literary and plastic arts. Through our research and community outreach activities, NICH seeks to help provide access to Belize’s cultural past, present and future.

NICH is comprised of the following institutions:

• Institute of Archaeology (IA)
• Institute of Creative Arts (ICA)
• Museums of Belize and Houses of Culture (MOB/HOC)
• Institute for Social and Cultural Research (ISCR)

In September 2008 a new unit called the Film and Media Unit was established under the umbrella of the Institute of Creative Arts. This unit facilitates The Office of the Film Commission which functions as the official government liason for filming activities in Belize.

• The Belize Film Commission (BFC)