Italian antiquities amnesty

A move to grant an amnesty to owners of looted antiquities in Italy was condemned as a licence for tomb robbers by conservation experts yesterday.

The measure exonerates those who own stolen items of archaeological value provided that they pay the State 5 per cent of the value. Salvatore Settis, a prominent art historian and former government adviser, said that this was a shameful move that amounted to "a pardon for anyone who has stashed away illegally acquired treasures".

"Not only is crime not being punished, it is actually being rewarded," Professor Settis said. "This is a cynical and irresponsible licence to kill the archaeological patrimony of Italy. A gigantic treasure hunt is about to begin."

AND MORE at the Guardian.

Posted by David on November 8, 2004 9:30 PM