The Federal Law on Archaeological, Artistic and Historical Monuments and Zones is a Mexican legal norm published in the Official Gazette of the Federation on May 6, 1972. Its objective is the protection, conservation, restoration and recovery of monuments and areas considered part of the archaeological, artistic and historical heritage of the Nation.[1]​.

Before its promulgation, there were scattered and limited provisions in laws of the first half of the century, such as the Law on the Protection and Conservation of Archaeological and Historical Monuments of 1934 and partial reforms of the 1940s. However, the construction boom, urbanization and the increase in illicit trafficking of archaeological pieces during the 1950s and 1960s made evident the need for a more solid and homogeneous framework.[2] Mexico had also signed international conventions on cultural heritage and sought to align itself with UNESCO recommendations.

The initiative was promoted by the Executive Branch, in coordination with the Ministry of Public Education, through the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) and the National Institute of Fine Arts and Literature (INBA). It was ruled on in committees and approved by the Congress of the Union in 1972. Its entry into force meant the repeal of previous regulations and the unification of criteria regarding cultural heritage.

The Law establishes that:

The Law has been fundamental in the consolidation of Mexican heritage policy. Since its promulgation, numerous presidential decrees have been issued that have declared monument zones (such as the historic center of Mexico City and Xochimilco in 1980 or the Historic Monuments Zone of Guanajuato in 1982).[3]​.

Likewise, it has served as a basis for cooperation with international organizations, especially within the framework of the 1972 UNESCO Convention on the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage. It has also been the legal instrument that supports the actions of the INAH in cases of archaeological rescues and of the INBA in the cataloging of contemporary artistic works of exceptional value.