A former adviser to the Greek government, Prof Irene Stamatoudi, has suggested that a deal to return the Parthenon Sculptures, also known as the Elgin Marbles, to Greece is "close." The sculptures have been housed in the British Museum since the early 19th century after being removed from Athens by Lord Elgin. Prof Stamatoudi indicated that negotiations have progressed, but she is unsure if a final agreement is imminent.
The discussions have been ongoing for years, with Greece seeking the return of the marbles, which it considers part of its cultural heritage. The British Museum maintains the sculptures were legally acquired. Recent reports suggest that the Greek government has proposed a "cultural, strategic partnership," which could involve sending other antiquities to the British Museum in exchange for the marbles.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has made the return of the Elgin Marbles a political priority, and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is thought to be more open to a potential deal than his predecessor. However, the British Museum's trustees remain responsible for decisions about the collection, and government officials insist the issue is a matter for the museum, not the state.
The Elgin Marbles, originally part of the Parthenon, were crafted in the 5th century BC and are considered among the most significant examples of Ancient Greek art.