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The British Museum has confirmed that it is in “constructive discussions” with Greece that could see some of the Parthenon marbles returned to the country.
Lauren Heath-Jones | Planet Attractions | 06 Jan 2023
The Parthenon marbles have been on display at the British Museum since 1834 Credit: Canva
The British Museum has confirmed that it is in “constructive discussions” with Greece that could see some of the Parthenon marbles returned to the country.
This is the first time the London institution has officially acknowledged the talks, after senior Greek ministers said in December 2022 that George Osbourne, chairman of the British Museum, had been in talks with the Greek government for more than a year over a potential return. Now, according to reports from The Telegraph, it seems an agreement has been reached that could see some of the sculptures returned. However, according to The Guardian no such deal has been agreed with a Greek official telling the paper: “This is not true. There is no such deal”
A statement from the British Museum said: “We’ve said publicly we’re actively seeking a new Parthenon partnership with our friends in Greece and as we enter a new year constructive discussions are ongoing.”
The news comes amid rising public pressure for the marbles to be repatriated to Greece, with British actor and writer Stephen Fry calling for their permanent return.
“The removal of the Parthenon sculptures could be compared to removing the Eiffel Tower from Paris or Stonehenge from Salisbury. I think this comparison speaks to the cultural importance of the Parthenon sculptures, which are indelibly evocative symbols of Greek heritage and identity,” the actor said.
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