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Monday, 15 October 2007, 08:31 GMT 09:31 UK

In pictures: Sculptures moved from Acropolis

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The Greek authorities have begun using cranes to winch thousands of ancient sculptures housed in a museum on the Acropolis to a new museum below.

Glass from the new Acropolis Museum reflects the Parthenon

Glass from the new Acropolis Museum reflects the Parthenon

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Over the next few months, 4,500 antiquities will be carried the 400 metres (yards) to the new site.

Curator walking past wrapped statues

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The marbles, most of which date from the Fifth and Sixth Centuries BC, have been insured for 400m euros (£280m).

Container being winched onto museum roof

Container being winched onto museum roof

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Last week a number of unworked marble slabs were lifted off the hilltop as the system was tested.

Parthenon frieze sculpture in container

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When it came to start moving the real thing, the marbles were carefully packed in polystyrene and wood before being placed in metal crates.

Workmen moving crate

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Crews in three cranes moved a 2.3-ton section of the frieze which once adorned the hill's largest temple, the Parthenon.

Crowd watching crate arrive

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Down below crowds had gathered to watch the historic event.

Crate containing Parthenon frieze section being opened

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Once safely in situ, the crates were opened and the rich carvings inspected.

New Acropolis museum

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Greek officials hope the new site will boost the country's long campaign for the return of the Elgin Marbles.

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