This weekend the Greek Centre in Melbourne’s CBD will be unveiling an impressive replica of the Parthenon Marble frieze.
The six-metre-long life-size replica will be placed over the building’s entrance, and as one of the most recognised symbols of Ancient Greece, Greek Community of Melbourne president Bill Papastergiadis says it is the perfect visible reminder of the Centre’s significance in the Greek diaspora.
“The building offers so many different services to Greek Australians, but at the same time we want the building and those services to be appropriately reflected through symbols of our culture and heritage,” Mr Papastergiadis told Neos Kosmos.
Thanking Steve Tsalikidis for his generous donation towards the installation, the president said the replica will make two statements: firstly about the building and its historical connection to Greece, and it will draw attention to the ongoing fight for the return to Greece of the Parthenon Marbles currently on show at the British Museum in England.
“It’s time for them to be returned,” Mr Papastergiadis said.
To mark the momentous occasion, Lonsdale Street will be closed off to create a festival atmosphere with speeches, music, and dance performances near the centre.
A number of significant figures are expected to attend, including a number of Greek health professionals currently in Australia for the Greek Health Tourism Conference at the Greek Centre this weekend.
The Parthenon Marble frieze replica will be unveiled at the Greek Centre (168 Lonsdale St, Melbourne, VIC) on Sunday 26 November at 12.30 pm. All are welcome to attend.