Robbery at Ancient Olympia museum

Armed robbers have stolen dozens of artifacts from a museum in Ancient Olympia – the birthplace of the Olympics, Greek officials say.

Local mayor, Thymios Kotzias, told media two masked men had broken into the museum after overpowering the sole guard, a woman.

He said items of “incalculable” value had been stolen, but gave no details.

Culture Minister, Pavlos Geroulanos, has tendered his resignation, state television reported.

Officials say the thieves broke into the museum early on Friday, smashed glass displays and took about 60 items – mostly bronze and clay statuettes.

Ancient Olympia, in Western Greece, is regarded as one of the most important cultural sites in the country.

Mr. Kotzias was quoted by AFP as saying: “There were two of them, and they had a gun.

“They immobilised the guard as the shift changed at 7am (0500 GMT), having previously knocked out the alarm.

“We must wait and see what the local archaeology supervisor will say, but the items were of incalculable value,” Mr. Kotzias added.—BBC