‘Product of theft’: Greece urges UK again to return Parthenon marbles

·

As the New Acropolis Museum celebrated its 11th anniversary on Saturday, Athens reinvigorated its call for Britain to return the Parthenon marbles.

Greece’s Culture Minister, Lina Mendoni, told newspaper Ta Nea that the British Museum’s retention of the antiquities is illegal and “contrary to any moral principle.”

“Since September 2003 when construction work for the Acropolis Museum began, Greece has systematically demanded the return of the marbles on display in the British Museum because they are the product of theft,” Mendoni told the Greek media outlet.

The Parthenon Sculptures are yet to return to Greece. Source: The New Yorker.

“The current Greek government, like any Greek government, is not going to stop claiming the stolen sculptures which the British Museum, contrary to any moral principle, continues to hold illegally.”

Mendoni also said that the British Museum has argued Athens has nowhere decent enough to display Phidias’ masterpieces, and added that its stance was “in stark contrast” to the view of the UK public.

In repeated polls, Britons have voiced support for the repatriation of the marbles, controversially removed from the Parthenon in 1802 at the behest of Lord Elgin, London’s ambassador to the Sublime Porte.

“It is sad that one of the world’s largest and most important museums is still governed by outdated, colonialist views.”

The Greek government has promised to strengthen its campaign to retrieve the marbles in time for the country’s 200 year independence celebrations next year.

READ MORE: Australia takes the lead in demanding the return of the Parthenon Marbles to Greece.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

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

Advertisement

Latest News

From Metallica to Maritime: The many lives of Greek shipping tycoon Harry Vafias

Though Greek shipping tycoon, Harry Vafias, spends much time working, it certainly isn't a case of 'all work and no play.’

‘I want them to know their word matters’: Peter Georgiou stands against gender violence

Peter Georgiou, a real estate agent from Rushcutters Bay and father of four-year-old twins Leila and Lola, believes change begins at home.

Thessaloniki’s Byzantine walls to shine with new light project

Thessaloniki’s iconic Byzantine Walls are set to be illuminated under a major cultural initiative announced by the Greek Ministry of Culture.

Greek World Heritage Cities face rising climate threats

Iconic Greek cities—Athens, Thessaloniki, Corfu, Rhodes, and Patmos—face serious climate threats, according to a new UNESCO-backed report.

Are apps like Duolingo enough to learn Greek, or do we need a tutor?

For many people who want to learn conversational Greek, an app, can be a very useful addition to your program.

You May Also Like

Yorgos Lanthimos wins “Best European Director” at European Film Awards

Acclaimed Greek director, Yorgos Lanthimos dominated the European Film Awards in Berlin on Saturday, December 7th, taking out eight awards for his film "The...

New Year’s liturgy held at Greek Orthodox church in Batemans Bay for first time in 24 years

For the first time in 24 years, the Divine Liturgy for the feast day of the Circumcision of Our Lord Jesus Christ took place in Batemans Bay.

Zarax Association of NSW celebrate Mother’s Day with luncheon

The Zarax Association of NSW celebrated Mother's Day together with the feast of Saints Constantine and Helen.