After independence was gained, one of the first Acts passed by the Greek government was for the protection and preservation of national monuments.
-- Melina Mercouri
And, of course, it must be asked: is it proper to transact with the Turks for the most reassured of Greek possessions when Greece is under Turkish invasion and subjugation?
-- Melina Mercouri
England and Greece are friends. English blood was shed on Greek soil in the war against fascism, and Greeks gave their lives to protect English pilots.
-- Melina Mercouri
In the world over, the very name of our country is immediately associated with the Parthenon.
-- Melina Mercouri
Let me state once more that we think museums everywhere are a vital social and cultural need and must be protected.
-- Melina Mercouri
Much has been said and continues to be said of what little concern the Turks had for the Acropolis treasures.
-- Melina Mercouri
Read Churchill, he tells you how crucial was the Greek role in your decisive desert victory over Rommel.
-- Melina Mercouri
There are no such things as the Elgin Marbles.
-- Melina Mercouri
This past must emerge from the museums in order to become a source of inspiration and creativity, to become the instrument and the joy of the people.
-- Melina Mercouri
We are ready to say that we rule the entire Elgin enterprise as irrelevant to the present.
-- Melina Mercouri
We say to the British government: you have kept those sculptures for almost two centuries. You have cared for them as well as you could, for which we thank you. But now in the name of fairness and morality, please give them back.
-- Melina Mercouri
We see ancient cultural chains broken, past traditions crumble and wonderful special characteristics wither away.
-- Melina Mercouri
You know, it is said that we Greeks are a fervent and warm blooded breed. Well, let me tell you something - it is true.
-- Melina Mercouri



