Why has Greece requested the return of the Parthenon sculptures from Britain?

The Greek government has consistently demanded the return of the Parthenon Sculptures—often referred to as the Elgin Marbles—because they are considered an integral part of Greece’s national cultural identity and heritage.1

The sculptures were removed from the Parthenon in Athens between 1801 and 1812 by Thomas Bruce, 7th Earl of Elgin, while he served as the British ambassador to the Ottoman Empire. Greece argues that the removal of these artifacts impoverishes the country's cultural identity and hinders a complete understanding of the works, as they are displayed outside their original context. Supporters of the return, including various Greek officials, have stated that the request is made in the name of world cultural heritage and that the mutilated monument itself cries out for the return of its pieces.1

In 2009, the Acropolis Museum opened in Athens with a dedicated gallery space specifically designed to house the sculptures, addressing previous arguments that Greece lacked proper facilities for their display. The British Museum has thus far refused these requests, citing the legality of the original acquisition and its status as a "universal museum".213