Dr. Vasiliki Kynourgiopoulou: Antiquities Trafficking in the Mediterranean

On October 2, JCU hosted a guest lecture on “Antiquities Trafficking in the Mediterranean Area” by Dr. Vasiliki Kynourgiopoulou who is an archaeologist and consultant for UNESCO, as well as a professor at Arcadia University in Rome.

The talk examined the history and current situation of antiquities trafficking by organized criminal groups destined for museums and private collectors. Using powerful visual images, Dr. Kynourgiopoulou explained the social and political reasons for looting especially in conflict zones and developing countries and outlined the routes by which antiquities are trafficked to markets in rich countries. She recounted some of the struggles for repatriation of stolen objects and explained the role of UNESCO in attempting to counter this trade.