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A deal to return the Parthenon Sculptures, also known as the Elgin Marbles, to Greece might be closer than ever, according to a former Greek government adviser, Professor Irene Stamatoudi. The historic sculptures, taken from Athens over 200 years ago and housed in the British Museum, have long been at the center of a diplomatic standoff between Greece and the UK.
Prof. Stamatoudi, who previously advised Greece’s culture ministry, stated that negotiations between Greece and the British Museum seem to be advancing, although details remain under wraps. She believes the Greek government is pursuing a "cultural, strategic partnership" that would involve Greece sending other notable antiquities to the British Museum in exchange for the return of the Parthenon Sculptures. However, such a proposal would need to navigate the legal constraints of the 1963 British Museum Act, which prohibits the museum from permanently removing items from its collection.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has made the return of the sculptures a political priority, seeing them as an essential part of Greece’s cultural heritage. Meanwhile, opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer appears more open to discussions compared to past UK government leaders, but he has stated that such decisions ultimately rest with the British Museum, not the government.
The British Museum trustees have reportedly considered a loan agreement to facilitate the sculptures’ temporary relocation to Athens. However, Greece has consistently rejected loan offers, as accepting them would imply acknowledgment of the British Museum's ownership.
The Parthenon Sculptures, crafted in the 5th century BC, were originally part of the Parthenon in Athens. British aristocrat Lord Elgin removed them in the early 19th century when Athens was under Ottoman rule. The sculptures suffered damage during transport to London, where they have remained ever since.
Greece maintains that the artifacts were taken unlawfully and are a vital symbol of its cultural identity. Conversely, the British Museum argues that Elgin legally obtained the marbles, though this claim has been a point of contention for decades.
Speculation about progress in negotiations comes as Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis met with Sir Keir Starmer in London this week. Although the official agenda did not list the sculptures as a topic, Greek media claimed the issue was raised. Starmer has hinted that he would not oppose a loan agreement if Greece and the British Museum reach one.
The controversy remains a sensitive issue, with the UK government reaffirming it has no plans to amend the British Museum Act to allow the sculptures’ permanent return.
The potential deal represents more than just a transfer of artifacts; it symbolizes cultural reconciliation and could set a precedent for handling disputed heritage items worldwide. For Greece, the sculptures are a deeply emotional and cultural matter, tied to national pride and identity. For the British Museum, their return raises questions about the future of its extensive global collection and the ethics of historical acquisitions.
As negotiations continue, both sides face significant legal and logistical hurdles. However, optimism is growing that an agreement might finally bridge the divide over these iconic artifacts.
[Source: BBC]
