As discussions heat up surrounding the Parthenon Sculptures, known as the Elgin Marbles, a former Greek cultural adviser signals a potentially close deal for their return to Greece. The long-standing debate over the sculptures, currently housed in the British Museum, sees renewed diplomatic efforts.
Potential Deal for Parthenon Sculptures Gains Momentum
Potential Deal for Parthenon Sculptures Gains Momentum
Former Greek official expresses optimism about progress in negotiations for the return of the Elgin Marbles.
Amid ongoing negotiations regarding the future of the Parthenon Sculptures, a former adviser to the Greek government has suggested that a deal for their return may soon be within reach. Professor Irene Stamatoudi, who has played an instrumental role in discussions over the Elgin Marbles for years, revealed to the BBC that talks appear to have gained momentum.
The sculptures, taken from Athens over two centuries ago by British aristocrat Lord Elgin during the Ottoman Empire’s control of the city, are currently on display at the British Museum. Stamatoudi indicated that the Greek government has proposed a "cultural, strategic partnership," potentially involving the sending of other significant antiquities to the British Museum to fill any void left by the Marbles' return.
Recent meetings between Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the UK’s Labour Party, and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis come amid claims that talks have progressed. While No 10 confirmed that the return of the Elgin Marbles was not explicitly on the agenda, Greek sources have hinted at underlying discussions during their meetings.
The status of the Parthenon Sculptures has created a diplomatic rift between Greece and the UK for decades. While Greece contends the artifacts were stolen, the British Museum maintains they were legally acquired. Stamatoudi expressed that retrieving the Marbles holds significant emotional weight for Grecians, stating that it is a matter of their cultural heritage.
Reports suggest that Mitsotakis aims to re-engage with Starmer following a prior conversation in November 2023. With Mitsotakis poised to reintroduce the issue during their exchanges, Greek officials clarify that final decisions regarding the sculptures lie with the British Museum’s trustees. A law prohibiting the removal of items from its collection complicates the matter further, although options for a special loan arrangement are currently being explored.
As the dialogue evolves, the hope for an amicable solution that respects both Greece's historical ownership and the British Museum's logistical constraints remains the focal point of ongoing negotiations.
