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More Stuff: 12th century Cypriot looted frescoes presented in London
The Baroness Berridge, of the Vale of Catmose in association with Walk of Truth (WoT), Founder and cultural activist, Tasoula Hadjitofi held a presentation entitled: “Blood, Treasure and Islamic State: War, Extremism and the Looting of Culture” at the House of Lords on December 16, 2014.  The Baroness spoke with sensitivity and passion and demonstrated insightful leadership by brining this subject and looted art in the House of Lords.

12th century Cypriot looted frescoes presented in London
Invited guests, Archbishop of Thyateira Gregorios and Great Britain, Baroness Maddock,  Lord Luce,  and Lord Turnberg were among a few of the many guests welcomed by Baroness Berridge.  Before a packed room she opened the presentation speaking about the link between religious freedoms and the destruction of cultural heritage.

12th century Cypriot looted frescoes presented in London
Panagia. 12th century restored fresco from the Monastery 
of Aspinthiotissa [Credit: Walk of Truth]

Sponsor and co-coordinator Tasoula Hadjitofi presented two 12th century looted frescoes taken from the Monastery of Aspinthiotissa in the occupied area of Cyprus, Kyrenia which she repatriated on behalf of Walk of Truth. She spoke about the loss of freedom, identity and human indignity that occurs with war and destruction of cultural heritage.

12th century Cypriot looted frescoes presented in London
12th century restored unknown fresco from Cyprus 
[Credit: Walk of Truth]

Mrs. Hadjitofi stressed the importance of engaging global citizens in lending their support to create a world of Peace. From refugee to protector of cultural heritage she engaged the audience on the importance of unity in combating the mass destruction of cultural heritage taking place in Syria, Iraq and Cyprus.


Prof. Dr. Willy Bruggeman, Chairman of the Belgian Federal Police Council, and former Deputy Director of Europol spoke of the need to make destruction of cultural heritage as a crime against humanity.

12th century Cypriot looted frescoes presented in London
12th century restored unknown fresco from Cyprus 
[Credit: Walk of Truth]

Baron Serge Brammertz, Prosecutor for the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia said, “It is imperative for international criminal tribunals to include destruction of cultural and religious heritage into their overall investigative strategies.

12th century Cypriot looted frescoes presented in London
Martyr. 12th century restored fresco from the Monastery 
of Aspinthiotissa [Credit: Walk of Truth]

Professor Norman Palmer, a barrister practicing at 3 Stone Buildings, Lincoln’s Inn, London and a visiting professor of law at King’s College, spoke for the need for a sound legal approach should be complemented with diplomatic and other initiatives that help  us to restitute unlawfully removed cultural treasures.

The MP David Burrows, summarized the key points in a brilliant way and he and the Baroness will bring the findings to the House of Parliament and The House of Lords.

Author: Tasoula Hadjitofi | Source: Walk of Truth [December 17, 2014]

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More Stuff: 12th century Cypriot looted frescoes presented in London + UK