Parthenon Marbles: What the Director of the British Museum Had to Say

In a recent interview with The Times, the Director of the British Museum, Nicholas Cullinan, expressed openness to a new kind of partnership with Greece regarding the Parthenon Marbles. While he stopped short of committing to their return, Cullinan spoke of “emerging plans” and called for a more constructive and collaborative approach to handling repatriation requests.

“There are only about 15 such cases,” he noted, referencing ongoing efforts like Ethiopia’s bid to reclaim the Maqdala collection and Australian Indigenous groups’ campaign for the return of the Gweagal Shield. “But,” he admitted, “the most well-known case is that of the Parthenon Marbles.”

A Shift Toward Cultural Exchange

Cullinan, who officially took up his role in the summer of 2024, emphasized the importance of sharing knowledge and cultural opportunities, rather than getting entangled in ownership debates.

“Plans are beginning to take shape,” he said. “We would like to develop an innovative partnership with Greece—one where we lend items, and they lend others. That way, we share knowledge and opportunities, instead of focusing on questions of ownership.”

No Commitment on Return—But a Call for Trust

When asked directly whether he intends to return the marbles to Athens, Cullinan declined to give a definitive answer. Instead, he emphasized the potential for a trust-based, long-term collaboration.

“It would be more of a partnership based on trust, one that could evolve over time. These are iconic objects for the museum,” he said.
“Our display label clearly states that the marbles are a subject of ongoing discussion—we don't shy away from that. But we must remain balanced and avoid inflaming tensions.”

Leadership Amid Turmoil

Cullinan was appointed Director of the British Museum on March 28, 2024, following a unanimous decision by the Board of Trustees. He previously served as Director of the National Portrait Gallery, and officially assumed his new post last summer, succeeding interim director Sir Mark Jones. Jones had stepped in after Hartwig Fischer resigned in the wake of a high-profile theft scandal at the museum.

A New Chapter for a Longstanding Debate?

While the British Museum has long resisted returning the Parthenon Marbles—removed from the Acropolis by Lord Elgin in the early 19th century—Cullinan’s comments suggest a possible softening of tone. His proposal for cultural exchange rather than confrontation may signal a new direction in the ongoing debate over the marbles’ future.