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British Museum director hails Bayeux Tapestry loan as blueprint for Elgin Marbles deal with Greece

The 70-metre linen embroidery, around 960 years old, will draw an estimated 7.5 million visitors during its British Museum run through July 2027.
The 70-metre linen embroidery, around 960 years old, will draw an estimated 7.5 million visitors during its British Museum run through July 2027.
Claudia Winkleman appeared in promotional material for the exhibition, which Macron is set to open in London next week.
Claudia Winkleman appeared in promotional material for the exhibition, which Macron is set to open in London next week.

British Museum director Nicholas Cullinan says the successful loan of the Bayeux Tapestry to the UK has opened a 'glimmer of possibility' for resolving the Elgin Marbles dispute. He told the Financial Times a similar reciprocal arrangement could see the Parthenon Sculptures displayed in Athens for the first time since Lord Elgin removed them in the early 1800s. The tapestry's landmark exhibition opens on 10 September. Cullinan cautioned there is no 'cookie cutter template' but called the French deal 'a very compelling example of international partnership.'

Greece has demanded permanent return of the sculptures since 1983, insisting that full ownership — and nothing less — is the only acceptable outcome.

Andy Burnham this week appeared to reverse his longstanding support for returning the marbles, saying their fate was now a matter for the British Museum.

Burnham once backed a 2002 Private Members' Bill for their return 'with no strings attached' — making his retreat a striking reversal.

MoreDaily Mail NewsElgin Marbles could still be sent to Greece on Bayeux Tapestry-style deal despite Andy Burnham backtrack on returning themThe TimesBayeux Tapestry loan ‘could pave the way for Elgin Marbles deal’The TelegraphElgin Marbles could be loaned to Greece under Bayeux Tapestry-style dealGB NewsElgin Marbles could be loaned to Greece under Bayeux Tapestry-style deal as British Museum director hails 'wonderful' potential agreement
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