Another of my favorite museums. So much stuff to explore. When we were there in the 1990s, we were looking for the lou, and happened by chance on a room containing the Elgin Marbles. These are sculptures from ancient times that adorned the frieze of the Parthenon in Athens. I think the Turks were storing gunpowder in the building and they or the British blew it up, so it is damaged to this day. But the British somehow got all the sculptures, having something also to do with Lord Elgin. They are in the British Museum and my very favorite sculpture in the whole wide world is the photo in this post. Lots to explore in this virtual museum. Click here to see the British Museum Streetviews.
And for more on the Elgin Marbles, go this way.
BONUS – an amazing world history interactive thingy – superb! British Museum Timeline of the World Interactive Work.
The Elgin Marbles – Marvel at the Pinnacle of Classical Greek Art
Delve into the heart of ancient Greece with the exquisite Elgin Marbles. These significant works of art, also known as the Parthenon Marbles, embody the highest level of artistic achievement during the Classical period and hold a pivotal place in the annals of Western art history.
The Intricate Beauty of the Elgin Marbles
Originally adorning the Parthenon in Athens, the Elgin Marbles showcase the best of Greek sculptural artistry. Consisting of intricate statues, friezes, and architectural elements, the Marbles present detailed depictions of mythical creatures, historical figures, and dramatic scenes from ancient Greek legends.
Unravel the Rich History and Controversy
The journey of the Elgin Marbles, from the Acropolis to their current home in the British Museum, is steeped in controversy. Exploring this rich history uncovers a fascinating tale of diplomacy, acquisition, and ongoing debates about cultural heritage and repatriation.
Experience the Majesty of Ancient Greek Art
Get up close with the grandeur of ancient Greek art through the Elgin Marbles. Each piece, whether it’s a beautifully carved figure or a finely etched piece of the frieze, tells a story of a time when Greek civilization was at its zenith.