Elgin Marbles loaned to Russia: should they be back in Greece?

Loan of priceless river god Ilissos is likely to reignite long-running Elgin Marbles dispute between London and Athens

Sculptures which form part of the Elgin Marbles based in the British Museum
(Image credit: Graham Barclay, BWP Media/Getty)

The British Museum has loaned one of the Elgin Marbles to Russia – the first time part of the priceless collection has been moved out of Britain since it arrived from Greece. The loan comes amid fears of a new Cold War with Moscow, but is also likely to reignite the long-running cultural heritage dispute between London and Athens.

What are the Elgin Marbles?

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