Parthenon Sculptures:
Greece and the UK had a diplomatic dispute regarding the Parthenon Sculptures at the British Museum when Athens accused London of avoiding discussion on the contested sculptures, also known as the Elgin Marbles.
- Despite Greece’s repeated requests for their permanent return, Britain and the British Museum have consistently refused.
- The Parthenon Sculptures housed at the British Museum are a collection of over 30 ancient stone sculptures from Greece, dating back more than 2,000 years.
- Originally adorning the walls and grounds of the Parthenon temple on the Acropolis hill in Athens, these artifacts are significant remnants of Athens’ Golden Age, with the temple’s construction completed in 432 BC.
- Dedicated to the goddess Athena, the Parthenon is a symbol of cultural and historical importance
- Among the sculptures, a notable piece spanning 75 meters portrays a procession celebrating the birthday of Athena.
- Additionally, other sculptures within the collection depict various gods, heroes, and mythical creatures.
- The intricate craftsmanship and historical context make these sculptures not only artistic treasures but also integral pieces of Greece’s cultural heritage.
- They were removed from the Parthenon in the early 19th century by Thomas Bruce, the 7th Earl of Elgin and then-British ambassador to the Ottoman Empire.
