Greece Regains 30 Looted Artifacts from the US, Including a Headless Aphrodite Statue

The US has returned 30 ancient artifacts, including a headless marble statue of Aphrodite, to Greece after they were found to have been illegally removed from the country. The artifacts, valued at $3.7 million, were voluntarily surrendered or seized from art dealers and a private collector.

In a significant development, the United States has returned 30 ancient artifacts to Greece, marking a crucial step in the repatriation of illegally removed cultural heritage. The artifacts, which include marble statues, armor helmets, and breastplates, were found to have been illicitly taken from Greece and date back from 4,700 years ago to the Middle Ages.

Collaborative Efforts for Repatriation

The handover ceremony took place in New York, where Greek officials received the precious artifacts. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg highlighted the exceptional value of the works, collectively estimated at USD 3.7 million (3.39 million euros). The repatriation process involved the voluntary surrender of 19 artifacts by New York gallery owner Michael Ward, while three others were seized from British art dealer Robin Symes. Additionally, one artifact was retrieved from a storage unit belonging to an undisclosed New York-based private collector.

Treasures of Greece's Cultural Heritage

The returned artifacts represent the rich cultural heritage of Greece and encompass a diverse range of historical periods. Among the notable pieces is a Roman-era headless marble statue of Aphrodite, the ancient Greek goddess of love. This statue was recovered from a storage unit belonging to Symes, where it had been concealed since at least 1999. Other significant artifacts include seven bronze helmets dating from the 6th century B.C. to the 3rd century B.C., bronze and iron breastplates for soldiers, a medieval silver platter, a marble Cycladic figurine dating to 2,700-2,300 B.C., and Mycenaean and Minoan Cretan pottery.

Appreciation for International Cooperation

Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni expressed gratitude for the "strong cooperation and hard work" of US and Greek experts that facilitated the successful return of the antiquities. This repatriation follows two similar operations earlier this year, involving 29 antiquities, and last year, when 55 works were returned from New York. Greece has long been a target for criminal networks involved in the illicit trafficking of ancient artifacts, which command high prices on the global market. By law, all ancient artifacts found in Greece are considered state property.

The return of these 30 ancient artifacts to Greece marks a significant victory in the fight against the illegal trade of cultural heritage. It underscores the importance of international cooperation and collaboration in preserving and protecting the rich history and cultural legacy of nations. Greece's ongoing efforts to combat the trafficking of antiquities demonstrate its commitment to safeguarding its cultural heritage for future generations.