The development of great excavations in Greece, starting from the last quarter of the nineteenth century, serves as a good example of the apple of discord, generated by archaeology among the European powers. It was absolutely fair and just that the Modern Greek nation wished to base its identity on and to certify its relation with its ancient past by revealing its archaeological heritage. At the same time, the rivalry of the then Great Powers created in Greece a new battle field, through the dominance and excavation of “sites-beacons”, such as Delphi. Thus, in order the opponents to be surpassed, it became decisive and urgent that more and more finds to be discovered or impressive building reconstructions to be erected. These “deeds” would not only testify for the range of the work accomplished, but they would also reveal the efficiency and potency of the performer to both, friends and enemies.
Modern Archaeology in “Acts”: The Era of the Great Excavations
27 Aug 2012
by Archaeology Newsroom
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