British Museum’s Parthenon Marbles deal with Greece ‘still some distance’ away

·

The head of the British Museum, George Osborne, has said a deal to return the Parthenon Marbles to Athens is still far from being reached. While discussions are ongoing with Greek officials, Osborne confirmed the museum is exploring an agreement where some sculptures might return to Athens in exchange for Greek treasures being displayed in London.

Speaking on the Political Currency podcast, Osborne cautioned that an agreement is not imminent. “We’re still some distance from any kind of agreement,” he said, noting that any resolution would involve some of the marbles being returned to Athens, where they originated from, while Greece would lend treasures to the British Museum.

Photo: Facundo Arrizabalaga / EPA.

The Parthenon Marbles, which form part of a 2,500-year-old frieze, were stolen from the Acropolis by British diplomat Lord Elgin in the early 19th century.

Osborne also praised UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s approach to the issue, noting that Starmer is more open to the return of the marbles than his predecessor, Rishi Sunak. Osborne said Starmer had emphasised that the decision rests with the British Museum’s trustees, independent of the government.

Discussions about a potential “Parthenon Partnership” are described by both sides as “constructive,” with a British Museum spokesperson suggesting it could balance global access to the collection while maintaining its integrity.

Source: Ekathimerini.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

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

Advertisement

Latest News

Youth the focus as Archbishop Makarios of Australia visits Brisbane

Archbishop Makarios of Australia made a historical visit to Brisbane where he engaged in the blessing of new Greek Orthodox Diocese offices.

SA’s Supreme Court Chief Justice Chris Kourakis claims top power ranking

Supreme Court Chief Justice Chris Kourakis has claimed the top spot in The Australian's 2023 Law Power rankings.

Inaugural winner of Gonis Gardiakos Scholarship announced by GOCSA

The Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia’s (GOCSA) Greek Language Schools marked the end of a successful year of learning with awards.

Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation to provide update on language program at public meeting

The Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation is holding a ‘Town Hall’-style event at AHEPA NSW hall in Rockdale on Monday, December 16.

Professor James Stellios appointed to the Federal Court of Australia

Attorney General, The Hon Mark Dreyfus KC MP, announced the appointment of eight new judges to the Federal Court of Australia.

You May Also Like

Rebetiko Reimagined concert captivates sold-out Sydney audience

On Saturday, October 19, the Sydney Conservatorium of Music was buzzing as the Australian Hellenic Choir presented "Rebetiko Reimagined,"

Greek Community of Melbourne celebrates International Women’s Day 2021

The event will commence with an official message for women of the diaspora by the President of Greece, Katerina Sakellaropoulou, Greece’s first female president.

South Melbourne FC secure back-to-back titles in National Blind Football Series

South Melbourne has secured back-to-back titles in the National Blind Football Series after defeating Brisbane-based Olympic FC.