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

Mytilenian Brotherhood of Sydney hosts annual cherry picking weekend

The Mytilenian Brotherhood of Sydney held its much-anticipated annual Cherry Picking Weekend from Saturday, December 7 to Sunday, December 8.

Brisbane’s Greek community enjoys inaugural ‘Christmas Carols by Candlelight’

The Holy Diocese of Brisbane hosted its first-ever "Christmas Carols by Candlelight" on Sunday, December 8, at the Church of Saint George.

Study Modern Greek at UNSW thanks to the 1821 Scholarship Program

Students with a passion for Greek language are being encouraged to apply for the newly launched 1821 Scholarship at the UNSW.

Demi Koulizakis to take part in Australia Women’s National Futsal Team selection camp

Demi Koulizakis is among the 24 players invited to attend a domestic selection camp in Sydney for the Australia Women’s National Futsal Team.

Greek Community of Melbourne Schools farewell their VCE graduates

The Greek Community of Melbourne Schools proudly hosted their VCE graduation ceremony on Saturday, December 7, at the Greek Centre.

You May Also Like

Greek police detain Turkish consular official on spy claim

Turkey’s foreign ministry swiftly condemned the arrest, saying it violated the consular official’s rights.

Australia’s Treasurer responds to Steve Georganas MP’s enquiry on Greece tax deal

Australia's Treasurer Jim Chalmers MP has given an update on negotiations for the Double Taxation Agreement between Australia and Greece.

Greek Community Cup to return to Melbourne this month

The Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) is once again proud to announce the launch of the 2024 Greek Community Cup.