Welcome to the National Institute of Culture and History in Belize. The National Institute of Culture and History 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 endeavors. We are committed to the preservation of Belize's ancient and historical era monuments and artifacts; the interpretation of Belize's documented, photographic and oral history; and the promotion of contemporary visual, literary and performing arts. Through our research and community outreach activities, NICH seeks to help provide access for all to the diverse culture of Belize. We seek to encourage Belizeans to better understand their historical and ethnic roots, and instill pride in our country's unique cultural diversity and shared national identity. The objectives for which the Institute is established and the principles which guide its work are designed to

• encourage creativity and freedom of expression within the law,
• foster cross-cultural understanding and mutual respect,
• to ensure that the several districts of Belize are beneficiaries and contributors to cultural policies and programmes,
• to promote effective integration of culture and arts as part of school curriculums,
• to ensure participation of civil society in the making of policies and programmes,
• to ensure the participation of youth,
• to take full advantage of the latest technological advances to ensure that the mass media contributes effectively to cultural development,
• to ensure that cultural promotions stress the values of national and regional community
• to conduct international relations and exchanges to safeguard and enhance national sovereignty and dignity and
• to allow free and democratic access to information within the framework of the law.

NICH is comprised of the following institutions:

• Institute of Creative Arts
• Museums of Belize and Houses of Culture
• Institute of Archaeology
• Institute of Social and Cultural Research

The heads of all four NICH departments report to the Administrator. The NICH Board of Directors is chaired by Ms. Diane Haylock, President of NICH.

The Institute of Creative Arts is responsible for the promotion of the performing, plastic and visual arts and it is headquartered at the Bliss Center for the Performing Arts (Belize City). ICA host performances, festivals of art and have excellent links with education in order to encourage and showcase music, dance, drama, creative writing and the visual arts.

Feel free to fill out our contact form.

Museums of Belize and Houses of Culture

The Museums of Belize and Houses of Culture include the Museum of Belize in Belize City, which is housed at what was formerly Her Majesty's Prison on Gabourel Lane and the Museum of Belize in Belmopan (Opening later in 2005).

There are currently 3 Houses of Culture in Belize that promote community participation in the arts as well as provide a venue for concerts and exhibitions.

• Belize City - House of Culture/Government House
• Orange Walk Town - Banquitas House of Culture
• Benque Viejo Del Carmen - Benque House of Culture at the former police station.

The staff of the Museums of Belize and Houses of Culture report to Director, Mrs. Lita Krohn.

Feel free to fill out our contact form.

Institute of Archaeology

The Institute of Archaeology, is responsible for the administration of the archaeology countrywide. The Institute of Archaeology monitors all ongoing archaeological projects in Belize and issues permits for site work. The Institute also manages all archaeological parks and reserves including the visitors' centers.

Feel free to fill out our contact form.

Institute of Social and Cultural Research

The Institute of Social and Cultural Research provides a center for research, with a library and conference facilities for scholars and students of Belizean History, Culture and Sociology. ISCR was instrumental in liaising with the Multicultural Center at the University of Belize for the development of the African and Maya History Project for Belizean schools.

Feel free to fill out our contact form.

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