Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Greek Neglect of Major Sites Argues for Less State Control Over Minor Artifacts

The Guardian has reported on further neglect of major archaeological sites in Greece. See
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2010/dec/03/greece-ruins-tragedy-neglect

Based upon the article, the Greek cultural establishment appears to be hoping that another EU bailout will fund needed repairs, but that seems unlikely. The EU's banker, Germany, is already fed up after helping to bail out Greece's bankrupt economy, and the EU is facing other serious financial meltdowns in countries like Ireland and Spain.

All this once again seriously undercuts the proposition behind the proposed MOU with Greece that state control means protection for ancient artifacts.

Perhaps, countries like Greece should focus on proper funding for major artifacts and forget about "control" over redundant minor artifacts that frankly are likely to be better cared for by collectors.

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