British Museum exec calls for ‘Parthenon partnership’ with Greece

·

The Parthenon Marbles could be returned to Greece from the United Kingdom through a new “Parthenon partnership,” the Deputy Director of the British Museum said in a recent interview.

Speaking with the Sunday Times Culture magazine, Dr Jonathan Williams said the British Museum wanted to “change the temperature of the debate” around the marbles.

“What we are calling for is an active ‘Parthenon partnership’ with our friends and colleagues in Greece,” Dr Williams said.

“I firmly believe there is space for a really dynamic and positive conversation within which new ways of working together can be found.”

The British Museum has not said it will hand the sculptures back, but Dr Williams said all sides needed to “find a way forward around cultural exchange of a level, intensity and dynamism which has not been conceived hitherto.”

The Parthenon Marbles in the British Museum. Photo: Definitely Greece.

“There are many wonderful things we’d be delighted to borrow and lend. It is what we do,” he added.

The statements are similar to those made by the Chair of the British Museum, George Osbourne, in June.

They come at a time when Greece has ramped up its demand for the Parthenon Marbles to be returned to Athens on many occasions. The Greek Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, has even offered to loan some of his country’s other treasures to the British Museum in exchange.

The Parthenon Marbles have long been a source of friction between Greek governments and the Museum, where they have been on display since 1816 after they were ripped off the Parthenon by Lord Elgin.

READ MORE: New British Museum director hints at lending the Parthenon Marbles to Greece.

Source: The Guardian.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Mytilenians strike gold at first-ever Hellenic Bowling Cup in Sydney

The inaugural Hellenic Bowling Cup rolled into action over the weekend, bringing together Samians, Kytherians, and Mytilenians in Sydney.

The 30th Greek Film Festival of Sydney to be presented by Benchmark Greek Law

The 30th Greek Film Festival of Sydney has announced its presenting partner for 2025, Benchmark Greek Law.

Greek Australians heading to Europe face travel disruption as Middle East conflict escalates

Airlines with flights between Australia, the Middle East and Europe are rerouting services and cancelling flights due to Middle East conflict

Tomaras brothers plead guilty over twin attacks in Sydney’s Glebe

Wolli Creek brothers Yianni Tomaras, 33, and Meneleos Tomaras, 30, have pleaded guilty to affray after attacking a former friend twice.

Cumberland Councillor Steve Christou slams rate hike amid cost-of-living crisis

Former Cumberland mayor and current councillor Steve Christou was the lone voice opposing a 7.1% council rate rise at this week’s meeting.

You May Also Like

On this day: Popular Greek actor, Alekos Alexandrakis, was born

Greek actor, Alekos Alexandrakis, starred in more than 75 movies and was well-known for his charm and charisma.

Tighter restrictions announced as NSW records 111 COVID-19 cases

Gladys Berejiklian addressed the media on Saturday morning confirming 111 new cases in NSW. 29 cases were via community transmission.

Nightclub owner Ross Glynatsis faces community service after being found guilty of gun possession and drug supply

Sirens Nightclub owner Ross Glynatsis faced Gosford Local Court after already pleading guilty to eight weapons and drug offences.