The aim of this study was to investigate the efficiency of 1-H benzimidazole as a corrosion inhibitor in protection of cultural artifacts made of bronze. For that purpose 1-H benzimidazole was studied on bare and patinated Cu-6Sn bronze, exposed to urban environments. Dissolution of bare and patinated bronze was investigated by potentiodynamic techniques and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The microstructure of the bronze surface exposed to the inhibitor was examined by SEM/EDS. 1-H benzimidazole showed a very good protective effect in sulfate/carbonate media which simulate urban acid rainfall. Benzimidazole protected the Cu-6Sn bronze covered by electrochemical patina by stabilizing the patina layer and by slowing down dissolution of bronze substrate. (C) 2013 The Electrochemical Society. All rights reserved.