British Museum Opens Door to Temporary Return of Parthenon Sculptures to Greece

British Museum Director Nicholas Cullinan made an encouraging statement regarding the temporary return of the Parthenon Sculptures to Greece after more than 200 years in London, citing the Bayeux Tapestry as a precedent. Cullinan stated that a similar model to the loan exchange with France involving the Bayeux Tapestry could work for the sculptures.

The sculptures have been on display at the British Museum since 1816, and Greece has been demanding permanent restitution since 1983. Since British law restricts permanent disposals, Cullinan proposes temporary loans and reciprocal exhibition exchanges instead of permanent return. In the Bayeux Tapestry example, France will receive pieces such as the Sutton Hoo and Lewis Chessmen artifacts.

During the museum's planned £1 billion, approximately 10-year restoration of the Western Galleries, the Parthenon Galleries will be closed. During this process, some of the sculptures may be loaned to other institutions. While there is no agreement with Greece yet, Cullinan believes the Bayeux experience will advance negotiations.