Elgin Marbles

The Elgin Marbles are a collection of classical Greek sculptures and friezes that originally decorated the Parthenon, a temple on the Acropolis of Athens. In the early 19th century, Lord Elgin, a British diplomat, removed them and brought them to the UK. Currently housed in the British Museum, their ownership is controversial. Greece claims they were taken illegally and seeks their return, arguing they are vital to Greek heritage and history. The debate highlights issues of cultural property and national identity, emphasizing the importance of preserving historical artifacts in their countries of origin.