Business Daily Looted: the risks of buying ancient history
Jul 16, 2025
Looting of ancient artifacts has surged, with terror groups exploiting the market for profit. The ethical dilemmas surrounding the antiquities trade are examined, highlighting the role of both technology and social media in illegal activities. There's a deep dive into the responsibilities of curators in repatriating stolen items and the challenges museums face regarding artifact provenance. Innovative solutions, like a unique identification system, are being developed to combat art theft and tackle the black market.
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Personal Roman Coin Example
- A Roman coin over 1,800 years old was purchased from a London antiques dealer.
- Research reveals many artifacts for sale are looted and trafficked globally, ranging widely in value.
Italy's Organized Looting Networks
- Italy faces large-scale looting by organised networks like the Orceo Mafia.
- Grave robbers use specialized tools and passed-down knowledge to extract artifacts skillfully.
Lysippos Statue Controversy
- The Greek bronze statue by Lysippos was looted from the sea and sold for nearly $4 million.
- Italy's military police want it returned, but the Getty Museum claims legal ownership.