Debate intensifies over Parthenon Marbles return amid legal threat

·

The Parthenon Marbles have again become a flashpoint in UK-Greece relations, after former British Prime Minister Liz Truss and lobbying group Great British PAC threatened legal action over alleged “covert” plans to return the sculptures to Athens.

In a letter to Labour leader Keir Starmer, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, and British Museum trustees, the group demanded a halt to negotiations.

Campaigners claimed an “accelerating campaign” is underway to remove the Marbles, acquired by the British Museum in 1816 after they were ripped off the Acropolis by Lord Elgin.

Photo: EPA.

The intervention drew criticism from archaeologists and experts, including Oxford professor Dan Hicks, who called the claims a “desperate culture-warrior exercise” and questioned the PAC’s transparency.

Illicit antiquities expert Christos Tsirogiannis said most Britons support the Marbles’ return and warned the letter harms UK-Greece relations.

Negotiations between Greece and the British Museum have been ongoing since 2021.

A cultural partnership involving loans of major artworks has reportedly been discussed as a possible framework for resolution. The British Museum says talks remain “ongoing and constructive.”

Source: The Guardian.

Cretan Convention - Web Banner

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

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

Advertisement

Latest News

Greece said ‘no’ to Italians in WWII, but answered to a Roman name

On OXI Day, The Greek Herald reflects on how one word - “No” - continues to shape identity, language and belonging.

How Vietnam veteran Steve Kyritsis made it his work to honour forgotten WWII soldiers

For Vietnam veteran Steve Kyritsis OAM, what began as a request from the Greek Consulate 14 years ago has become a lifelong mission.

Young Greek Australians reflect on OXI Day and their cultural identity

OXI Day remains a symbol of hope and national pride in Greek history, especially for the younger generations.

St Demetrios Greek Orthodox church at St Marys hosts first-ever Paniyiri

People flocked to St Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church at St Marys on Sunday to celebrate the feast day of the parish’s patron saint.

Kezilas family donates historic baptism record to Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia

His Grace Bishop Bartholomew of Brisbane has received the first recorded Baptism Certificate issued in Australia, dating back to 1924.

You May Also Like

The man for all jobs: How a Greek migrant turned setbacks into 7-figure success

When Christof Mantzanas stepped off the plane in Melbourne on 10 March 2015, he had just $1,000 in his pocket.

Angelo Candalepas and Associates unveil winning design for new NGV Contemporary

The Victorian Government has unveiled the winning designs for a new gallery by Angelo Candalepas and Associates.

Where uncertainty met hope: ‘Finding Home’ exhibition honours Greek spirit at Bonegilla

Block 19 of the Bonegilla Migrant Reception and Training Centre was the “first step” in Theofanis Emmanouilidis’ life in Australia.