Melbourne Lord Mayor demands UK return Parthenon Sculptures to Greece

·

Melbourne’s Lord Mayor, Nicholas Reece, has issued a strong call for the UK government to return the Parthenon Sculptures to Greece, criticising British authorities for failing to take responsibility for their rightful repatriation.

In a letter addressed to UK Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism, Sir Chris Bryant MP, Reece did not hold back in his demand for decisive action, stating: “As a Minister of the Crown, you should take responsibility for a decision as important as the location of the Parthenon Sculptures.”

He urged the British government to reconsider its position, calling on them to “do the right thing and return the treasures of humanity to their rightful home in Athens.”

nicholas reece parthenon marbles
The letter sent by Melbourne Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece to UK Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism, Sir Chris Bryant MP.

Reece strongly rejected the UK government’s stance that the decision rests with the British Museum, calling it an evasion of responsibility: “Referring this decision to the British Museum and claiming that you are powerless to act is an abrogation of your responsibilities. It is a failure of leadership.”

While advocating for the return of the original sculptures, Reece suggested the British Museum could continue to honour Greek antiquity through replicas, noting that “while not the originals, these replicas will continue to be a significant drawcard for people around the world.”

Reece’s letter comes after Victoria’s Premier Jacinta Allan confirmed at the Antipodes Festival on Saturday, February 22 that she had also written to the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, calling for the return of the Parthenon Marbles.

These letters add further pressure to the long-running debate over the Parthenon Sculptures, reinforcing Melbourne’s strong ties to Greece and its commitment to cultural justice.

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

Ambassador of China to Greece works with Health Minister cease coronavirus spread to Greece

Greek Health Minister Vassilis Kikilias recently held an emergency meeting with the Ambassador of China to Greece, Zhang Qiyue, and with infectious disease specialists...

Kyrgios and Humbert to square off at Wimbledon in epic rematch

Stefanos Tsitsipas will meanwhile look to claim his first Grand Slam trophy, following his narrow loss to Djokovic in the Roland Garros final.

Zisi Kokotatsios granted bail after alleged hit and run death of Sydney lawyer

Rideshare driver Zisi Kokotatsios has been granted bail after an alleged hit and run caused the death of a Sydney lawyer on March 17.