Tag: Preservation

The Pillaged Muse: Greek Antiquities in the Shadow of World War II

The Pillaged Muse: Greek Antiquities in the Shadow of World War II

During the tumultuous years of World War II, Greece's ancient treasures became both targets of exploitation and symbols of resistance. Dr. Stavros Paspalas explores this often-overlooked story, revealing the human drama behind the preservation and loss of these invaluable artifacts. From Nazi Germany's perverse Philhellenism to the heroic efforts of Greek citizens, this narrative highlights the complex relationship between power, ideology, and cultural heritage.

1000144329

Thessaloniki's Metro Unveils 17 Centuries of History at Venizelos Station

Venizelos metro station, opening soon, reveals Thessaloniki's history from its founding in the 4th century BC to the 20th century. This massive archaeological undertaking showcases the Roman Decumanus Maximus (today's Egnatia Street), Byzantine shops, and thousands of artifacts. The station's 17-year journey reflects a city divided over preserving the unearthed treasures, leading to protests and debates. Now, this unique station promises to be both a transportation hub and an underground museum.

On October 15, an architectural stone fragment from the Middle Byzantine period was repatriated to Greece from Mainz, Germany. Measuring 0.15m in height and adorned with a spiraling vine design, the artifact originates from Acrocorinth and reflects its rich architectural heritage. The return process began in spring 2022 when a German citizen inherited the fragment and contacted the Greek General Consulate in Frankfurt. This repatriation is part of a broader trend of cultural property returns, highlighting the growing awareness of the importance of preserving and returning artifacts to their countries of origin. The fragment will be handed over to the Corinthian Antiquities Ephorate.

Repatriation of Middle Byzantine Architectural Fragment to Greece

On October 15, an architectural stone fragment from the Middle Byzantine period was repatriated to Greece from Mainz, Germany. Measuring 0.15m in height and adorned with a spiraling vine design, the artifact originates from Acrocorinth and reflects its rich architectural heritage. The return process began in spring 2022 when a German citizen inherited the fragment and contacted the Greek General Consulate in Frankfurt. This repatriation is part of a broader trend of cultural property returns, highlighting the growing awareness of the importance of preserving and returning artifacts to their countries of origin. The fragment will be handed over to the Corinthian Antiquities Ephorate.

Greek Gods Resurfaced: Ancient Statues Rescued from the Depths archaeology Riace Bronzes

Greek Gods Resurfaced: Ancient Statues Rescued from the Depths

Sending shockwaves through the archaeological world, Roman diver Stefano Mariottini was snorkelling about 8 meters deep when he saw a hand sticking out from the sandy bottom. Thinking he had found human remains, he called the police.