The British Museum expressed interest in pursuing “realistic solutions” to its ownership dispute with Greece regarding the Parthenon Marbles. This statement followed a UNESCO conference where a Turkish representative criticized England’s claim to the contested sculptures.
During the 24th meeting of the Intergovernmental Committee for Promoting the Return of Cultural Property to its Countries of Origin or its Restitution in case of Illicit Appropriation (ICPRCP) organized by UNESCO in Paris on May 29-30, Zeynep Boz, head of the Anti-Smuggling Department of the Turkish Culture and Tourism Ministry, gained attention when she stated that there was no evidence supporting claims that the marbles were legally acquired by Lord Elgin during his tenure as the British ambassador to the Ottoman Empire.
Boz said, “The existence of a document that would legitimize this purchase made by the British colonialists at the time is not within our knowledge.”
Boz added that the marbles, which include friezes, sculptures and other significant artifacts from the 5th century B.C., are emblematic of Athens and should be returned.
“I do not think there is any need to discuss the legality of the purchase. With all our hearts, we look forward to witnessing the return of these statues to Greece.,” she added.
“The British Museum acknowledges Greece’s strong desire for the return of the Parthenon Sculptures to Athens. We understand and respect the deep emotions involved,” a museum spokesperson told SKAI TV. The spokesperson added that the museum seeks a “new relationship with Greece.”
The marble, which Lord Elgin removed from the Parthenon and other structures on the Acropolis in Athens in the early 19th century, has been a point of contention between Greece and the U.K. for nearly two centuries.
Cancelled meetings
In November 2023, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed displeasure after his planned meeting with British counterpart Rishi Sunak was canceled just hours before.
Rishi Sunak canceled his meeting with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis because the latter intended to discuss the repatriation of Greek antiquities, including the Parthenon Marbles, which are currently held in the British Museum. The marbles are held under the name Elgin Marbles.
Following Sunak’s cancellation, Mitsotakis was offered a meeting with British Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden, but he refused, stating on the Greek prime ministerial website that “whoever believes in the correctness and justice of his positions is never afraid of a confrontation of arguments.” He further expressed his disappointment at not being able to discuss the Parthenon Marbles issue and other global challenges such as Gaza, Ukraine, the climate crisis, and migration with his British counterpart.
