Posted on 01/16/2012 8:56:19 PM PST by SunkenCiv
Russian magnate Prokhorov reportedly wants to buy Temple of Zeus.
The mayor of the Sicilian city of Agrigento said Thursday that he would not sell one of Italy's prime archaeological treasures even for 40 billion euros after it reportedly attracted the interest of Russian industrialist Mikhail Prokhorov.
The precious-metals billionaire, who plans to run in this year's presidential elections in Russia as an independent candidate, has set his sights on buying the ruins of the Temple of Zeus in Agrigento's famed Valley of the Temples, according to media reports.
But Agrigento Mayor Marco Zambuto has moved to nip the notion in the bud.
"I wouldn't sell the Temple of Zeus even for 40 billion euros, the figure Premier Mario Monti had to find to save Italy's finances," Zambuto said referring to the government's austerity package, which was actually nearer to 30 billion.
"It's simply unthinkable that a billionaire could buy our historical wonders and take them to their own country".
Zambuto said, however, that the city was interested in attracting foreign investment in the UNESCO World Heritage site...
The seven Doric temples at Agrigento, most of which probably date from the fifth century BC, are one of the glories of Magna Graecia, a swathe of southern Italy which was once dotted with wealthy and culturally lavish Greek cities.
The name Valley of the Temples is misleading as the site is located on a ridge on the edge of Agrigento...
(Excerpt) Read more at ansa.it ...
Well, for all the fun they make of Sicilians, that Mayor is a prince. A man whose heart is all for his country, and who will not sell them short.
Wonder if he’d like to run for president of the U.S.?
Yes, it was the Hotel Athena. A very lovely place. It also had a restaurant attached that was very good and the whole surroundings were filled with fruit trees, goats and shephards! Heaven.
Sure, but he probably still eats his spag with a spoon, for cryin’ out loud. ;’)
Greece hopes to raise money by renting out Acropolis, Delphi
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/chat/2834669/posts
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.