A basic principle of the study was the preservation not only of the tomb and the ancient road (dromos) but of the tumulus as an integral part of a monumental whole needing immediate protection. The protection of this major ancient technical work, which also documents burial practices in a particular historical period, was deemed a requisite presupposition not only for the comprehensive restoration of the building but also to preserve the natural landscape of the Derveni cemetery, which has begun to be compromised due to modern interventions.