Sunday Times E-Paper

UK, Greece in 'secret talks' on Parthenon Marbles: Report

ATHENS, Dec 3, (AFP) - The British Museum and the Greek prime minister are in the “advanced stage” of “secret talks” over the “possible return” of the Parthenon Marbles, local media reported on Saturday.

The ancient sculptures, also known as the Elgin Marbles, were taken from the Parthenon temple in Athens in the early 19th century by British diplomat Lord Elgin and have been held by the British Museum ever since. Greece wants them returned.

The behind-the-scenes talks between British Museum chair George Osborne and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis “have been taking place in London since November 2021”.

The Parthenon temple was built on the Acropolis in the 5th century BCE. In the early 19th century, workmen stripped entire friezes from the monument on the orders of the British ambassador to the Ottoman Empire, Lord Elgin. The Times newspaper said: “Time and circumstances are changing. The sculptures belong in Athens. They must now return there.”

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2022-12-04T08:00:00.0000000Z

2022-12-04T08:00:00.0000000Z

https://sundaytimes.pressreader.com/article/282196539979802

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