The reunification of the Parthenon Marbles

A European Concern

The Parthenon is far more than a unique historical building, the national symbol of Greece and the highest cultural accomplishment of its people. It is also a major monument of European civilization and a powerful reminder of mankind's enduring values of democracy, freedom and personal liberty, and as such has long been a UNESCO World Héritage Site.

The authors of this book stress that the Parthenon Marbles should be reunited in their original geographical and cultural context, They underline the uniqueness of this restitution claim which concerns the reunification of the architectural parts of a symbolic monument and therefore does not constitute a precedent.

Prof. Sidjanski sums up the very rich and diverse approaches of the authors : « At a time when Europe is striving to bring together the States and peoples divided for so long by the twists and turns of history, it is all the more important that we reunite the scattered pièces of this major monument of our European and Western cultural héritage, returning them to their home within sight of the Acropolis ».