What is the “Elgin Marbles” or “Parthenon Marbles” controversy?
Lord Elgin, an Englishman, claimed he received permission from the local Turkish authorities to remove whatever he wanted from the ruins of the Parthenon. But based on surviving documents, he apparently interpreted even that “permission” quite liberally. The Greek government has been demanding the return of the Parthenon Marbles. At present, they are displayed at the British Museum in London, England.
