(57) The present invention relates to an improved process for the purification of melamine obtained by synthesis from urea which comprises the following steps: a) bringing raw melamine containing impurities of polycondensates and other by-products of the synthesis reaction, into solution, obtaining a solution/suspension in which the insoluble products are dispersed; b) subjecting the solution/suspension thus obtained to treatment to remove the CO₂ dissolved, reducing its concentration to values lower than 0.5% by weight; c) treating the solution/suspension obtained in step b), having a content of CO₂ lower than 0.5% by weight, with ammonia in a quantity ranging from 1 to 15%, preferably from 3 to 9% by weight, at a temperature ranging from 110 to 180°C, preferably from 130 to 140°C; d) putting the solution leaving step c) in contact with a solid catalyst, under the same conditions as step c). The present invention also relates to the equipment for effecting said process.