Patriarchate Hails Greece-Bulgaria Artifact Deal, Citing Parthenon Marbles

The Ecumenical Patriarchate welcomed Greece and Bulgaria’s agreement to exchange historic religious treasures, describing it as the beginning of a broader restitution process. Greece received 48 ecclesiastical objects removed from monasteries and dioceses in northern Greece during World War I, while Bulgaria received remains identified as those of medieval ruler Tsar Samuel. The Patriarchate urged swift completion under international law and moral principles, and said the deal could inspire efforts to reunite the Parthenon Sculptures in Athens and beyond worldwide.