Latest news with #Parthenon
The National
3 days ago
- Science
- The National
Best photos of July 26: Tourist spot in Salalah to Children cools off in a fountain in Moscow
Thermal imaging shows the temperature variations around the Parthenon temple at the top of the Acropolis hill during a heatwave in Athens, Greece. Reuters
Telegraph
19-07-2025
- Politics
- Telegraph
Elgin Marbles could be loaned to Greece indefinitely under MPs' plans
MPs will push to change the law to pave the way for the Elgin Marbles to be returned. Greece and the British Museum are locked in a stalemate in talks over a potential deal that would see the ancient sculptures returned to Athens. Limited by legislation, the best the British Museum chairman George Osborne can offer the Greek government is a three-year loan. This will not be countenanced by Greek leaders who claim that the Marbles were stolen by Lord Elgin in the early 19th century, and are in effect illegally held in the UK. Parliamentarians sympathetic to the Greek cause are hoping to alter existing laws to pave the way for an 'indefinite loan' currently barred by UK law. This would allow the British Museum to 'loan' the Marbles to Greece without having to renounce ownership of the sculptures that once adorned the Parthenon. Liberal Democrat MP Andrew George is leading efforts in the Commons to have the Marbles returned. He told the Telegraph that he hopes to 'get parliamentary draughtsmen to look at the way we could bring in a statutory instrument to address it'. Mr George said that tweaking UK law would give the British Museum more freedom and make it easier to reach a deal over the Marbles, which Mr Osborne has advocated. The MP said: 'We have fertile ground in George Osborne and the trustees of the British Museum.' The British Museum is prevented by British Museum Act 1963 from disposing of objects in its collection, which is held for the public, and it therefore lacks the power to hand over the Elgin Marbles. It can offer a loan, but this would necessitate Greece accepting Britain's legal ownership, and the eventual need to return what had been loaned. The Greek position is that the Marbles were stolen, and that the statues, plaques and sections of frieze designed by Phidias should be permanently returned to Athens. The UK government has said it will not change the British Museum act, resulting in a stalemate between all parties. Chris Bryant, the art minister, has been adamant that the three-year loan option is the only currently available legal means by which the Marbles could ever end up in Greece. However, MPs and former peers, including Lord Vaizey and Baroness Debbonaire, hope that they can push for changes to the Export Control Act 2002. This limits the loan of cultural artefacts to three years, but by tweaking to allow for indefinite periods, MPs hope to create a backdoor to permanently exporting the Marbles without becoming embroiled in the legality of ownership. This plan would require Parliamentary support to introduce a statutory instrument, and on the Greek government accepting a permanent return deal under the guise of a 'loan'. The British Museum will soon need somewhere to store the marbles as it begins work o a major restoration of its western galleries, where the artworks are held, and campaigners feel that it is the pert time to reach and agreement with Greece
Gulf Today
26-06-2025
- Climate
- Gulf Today
Heatwave triggers health warnings across Balkans
Temperatures soared across the Balkans on Thursday, with parts of the region expected to hit 41 degrees Celsius (106 Fahrenheit), triggering heatwave health warnings. In Croatia, the capital Zagreb and the country's east were at the highest risk of heat, according to the national Meteorological and Hydrological Service. Authorities remained on high alert after forest fires over the weekend destroyed dozens of homes on the country's tourism-oriented southern coast. Albania said its firefighters managed to control eight blazes in the past 24 hours. Meteorologists in Bosnia warned people to stay indoors as parts of the country were predicted to climb to 41˚C. A young man jumps off a board into Lake Ohrid on a summer afternoon in Ohrid, North Macedonia. Reuters "Be ready to suspend outdoor activities and prepared for high temperatures that will lead to health risks among vulnerable people, like the elderly and very young," Bosnia's meteorological institute said. This is the first of at least three heatwaves expected during the June-August period in Bosnia, said Bakir Krajinovic from the country's Federal Hydro-Meteorological Institute. Tourists with an umbrella walk in front of the ancient Parthenon temple at the Acropolis Hill. AP Temperatures so far this month have already exceeded forecasts, and predictions for July and August indicate temperatures will be four to five degrees above average, Krajinovic said. It was also the driest June on record in Bosnia, with the lowest rainfall since measurements began 135 years ago. Krajinovic said climate change was driving "more intense" weather events and breaking records "more often." A tourist drinks water at a fountain during a heatwave in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Reuters Parts of Serbia are predicted to climb to 39C, also significantly above seasonal average, according to Serbia's National Hydrometeorological Service. The heat is expected to ease by Friday, with temperatures slightly dropping over the weekend, before climbing again next week, according to weather forecasts for several Balkan nations. Agence France-Presse
Daily Mirror
17-06-2025
- Daily Mirror
Tourist warning to 10 million as Europe's hottest capital on alert
The Mediterranean as a whole is warming up faster than the global average, while many cities and islands in Greece record numerous days each summer where the mercury tips over the 40C mark The hottest capital in Europe is on high alert as 10 million holidaymakers look to descend on a city that has become stifling in recent years. Visitors to Athens may want to gird their loins and pack a portable fan ahead of their holidays this summer. Athens has always been scorching in the summer, but never as much as it is now. Europe's hottest mainland capital roasted in record highs last summer, with a Greece -wide heatwave from July 8 to 23 the longest in the country's history. While last year saw records topple, it wasn't a total outlier. The Mediterranean as a whole is warming up faster than the global average, while many cities and islands in Greece record numerous days each summer where the mercury tips over the 40C mark. The heat is a particular problem in Athens, where a lack of green space and shelter from the unrelenting midday sun can leave visitors from less sunny climes feeling roasted and fatigued. Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@ In fact, the Acropolis of Athens was shut several times last summer because of the relentless heat, which was deemed to be a danger to visitors. Each day close to 17,000 people visit the site, which is home to the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Propylaea entrance and white marble columns that radiate heat at tourists. In the high season as many as 23,000 people a day trample over these hallowed rocks, eroding the foundations of what many consider to be the birthplace of democracy. It's become so crowded that a new visitor cap was put in place last year. This has helped to control the crowds a little, bringing a touch of calm to a bustling spot. To add to the heat issues, overtourism is rearing its head in Athens. Foders, an American outlet, has argued that the Greek city is one of the many great historical settlements which is being eroded and damaged thanks to out of control tourism. Having bounced back in terms of visitor numbers post-financial melt-down and coronavirus lockdowns, "there's fear that if the surge of visitors continues unchecked, the most Athenian boroughs will culturally erode and physically disappear," Fodors writes. The publication placed Athens on its 'No travel' list. In a bid to dampen the impact of Greece's raging hot summers, an early-warning systems for heatwaves and real-time monitoring of temperature data, along with fountains, air-conditioned cooling centers and shady pocket parks have been put in place, CNN reports. Emergency services have been put at the ready ahead of this summer, including around the foothills of the Acropolis. In 2021, the city became Europe's first to appoint a dedicated 'chief heat officer', who has been working on nature based solutions such as tree planting to lessen the perceived heat in Athens. Iris Plaitakis, a tour guide who regularly visits the Acropolis, told CNN: 'Tourists often underestimate the heat, especially those from colder climates. They don't think to wear hats or bring enough water. You're much more exposed to the sun and heat up there because of the higher elevation and lack of trees and other shade.'
Belfast Telegraph
15-06-2025
- Belfast Telegraph
A World of Wonders: Epic Bucket List Experiences for 2026
Whether you're planning to explore Europe or go long-haul, there's so much out there waiting to be discovered. With 2026 fast approaching, now is the perfect time to start planning. Whether you're drawn to ancient architecture, remote wilderness, or vibrant coastlines, here's some inspiration for your travels and why they're worth adding to your bucket list. Encounter Wildlife in the Galápagos - Nature Like Nowhere Else Located 1,000 km off Ecuador's coast, these remote islands are famous for their unique wildlife, including giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas, all thriving in a protected and largely untouched ecosystem. Why add to your travel list: It's one of the few places where you can observe wildlife up close in a truly pristine natural setting. The Galapagos Islands, which inspired Darwin's theory of evolution, are a dream destination for nature lovers and science enthusiasts alike. Explore Cinque Terre – Italy's Colourful Coastal Villages Cinque Terre is five colourful fishing villages on Italy's Ligurian coast. Dating back to the Middle Ages, these once-isolated communities relied on fishing and hillside vineyards, preserving their traditional charm over the centuries. Why add to your travel list: It's one of the top sights in Italy, and it's impossible to fully capture through photos alone. The views from a train or boat trip around the area are truly amazing, offering unique perspectives of this stunning coastline. Feel the Power of Iguazu Falls – Nature's Roaring Wonder Stretching across the border of Argentina and Brazil, Iguazu Falls consists of nearly 300 waterfalls surrounded by lush rainforest. The sheer volume of water and the diverse wildlife make it one of the most impressive natural sights in the world. Why add to your travel list: Experiencing Iguazu Falls from both sides of Brazil and Argentina reveals two very different yet equally breathtaking perspectives. Being there means immersing yourself in the thunderous roar, misty spray, and vast scale of the falls. It's an experience that leaves a lasting impression, bringing you face-to-face with nature's raw power. Wander Through The Acropolis – Greece's Ancient Marvel The Acropolis sits above Athens as a lasting symbol of ancient Greece, the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and classical architecture. This remarkable site is home to several iconic structures, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Why add to your travel list: Visiting the Acropolis, along with other ancient sites in Greece, offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the foundations of Western civilisation firsthand. Experience Uluru – The Spiritual Heart of the Outback Uluru rises dramatically from the red centre of Australia, a sandstone monolith sacred to the Anangu people. It holds deep cultural significance through the stories connected to the land. Why add to your travel list: Its vivid colours at sunrise are a sight you'll never forget and visiting offers insight into Indigenous heritage and the landscape's cultural importance in Australia. Visit Mount Teide - Spain's Volcanic Marvel Mount Teide is the highest peak in Spain, set within a vast volcanic national park. Its otherworldly terrain and dramatic landscapes create a truly unique experience. Why add to your travel list: It's a chance to explore a landscape in Spain that feels almost otherworldly, with vast lava fields, jagged rock formations and sweeping vistas that stretch into the horizon. Admire the Taj Mahal – The Eternal Symbol of Love Built in 1632 by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is a masterpiece of architecture known for its intricate inlay work, perfect symmetry, and impressive scale. Why add to your travel list: Seeing the Taj Mahal in person gives you a real sense of the history, scale, and precision behind one of the most iconic landmarks in India. Discover Mont Saint-Michel – The Tidal Island Spectacle Mont Saint-Michel is a medieval abbey perched on a rocky island off Normandy's coast. The tides surrounding it create a dramatic landscape, and its cobbled streets feel frozen in time. Why add to your travel list: Experiencing Mont Saint-Michel's historic architecture and timeless atmosphere in person is profoundly captivating. Its unique location and rich history make it one of the most alluring heritage sites in France. Uncover The Rockies, Canada – Stunning Mountainscapes Stretching across Alberta and British Columbia, the Canadian Rockies feature a diverse range of landscapes, including rugged peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and dense forests, making it a favourite destination for nature enthusiasts. Why add to your travel list: The breathtaking natural beauty and vast wilderness of the Rockies in Canada are sights you truly must see to believe. Notable highlights include Banff, Lake Louise and the scenic Icefields Parkway. From ancient marvels to natural wonders, there's so much to explore in 2026; the hardest part will be deciding what to tick off your list first! Belfast Telegraph Travel in association Travel Department have been providing guided holidays for all over the world for over 28 years and counting. With 100s of destinations to choose from, holidays include flights, accommodation, transfers, guided tours and much more.
