Preserving Heritage: Greek Police Thwarts Antiquity Trafficking

Preserving Heritage: Greek Police Thwarts Antiquity Trafficking

A Successful Operation Against Antiquity Trafficking

In a commendable effort, the Greek Police have successfully thwarted a meeting for the sale of antiquities held by a criminal organization on the morning of Saturday, September 16, 2023. The operation took place in a building’s surrounding area in Palaio Faliro, based on relevant information. A considerable number of ancient artifacts of significant historical and archaeological value were seized during this operation, preserving invaluable pieces of the country’s cultural heritage from illegal trafficking.

The Seized Artifacts

An archaeologist from the Ephorate of Antiquities of Piraeus and Islands examined the seized artifacts, identifying 27 out of 31 items as protected under the law for the Protection of Antiquities. The remaining four artifacts require further investigation. Among the recovered items is a gold coin from ancient times, specifically the 4th century BC, with a diameter of about 17mm and a weight of about 9.2 grams.

Ancient artifacts protected by law include two marble lekythos with relief representation; clay idols of seated female figures from archaic times; a clay idol of a pigeon from the 6th to 5th century BC; a clay idol of a nude male figure from classical times, and other clay idols of seated female figures from archaic times.

Artifacts Under Investigation

Four ancient artifacts seized in the operation require further examination. These include a marble idol of Cycladic type; a clay female idol of Neolithic type; a bronze statue of a warrior; and a lead idol of a female figure in the form of a dancer.

Next Steps in the Process

The recovered antiquities will be handed over for safekeeping and final assessment to the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus and the Numismatic Museum of Athens. The case file will then be submitted to the Athens Misdemeanors Prosecutor.

Preserving Cultural Heritage

These efforts by the Greek Police have helped protect and preserve invaluable pieces of the country’s cultural heritage from illegal trafficking. The successful operation underscores the importance of vigilance and swift action in safeguarding the cultural and historical artifacts that are integral to a nation’s identity and heritage.