Archaeological artifacts from ancient civilizations are increasingly being used as political symbols by modern nations seeking to assert historical claims over territories. There are disputes over artifacts from the Indus Valley Civilization that are claimed by both India and Pakistan, and Elgin Marbles removed from the Parthenon in Athens that remain in the British Museum despite Greek requests for their return. Resolving ownership disputes over ancient artifacts is complicated as many were acquired before modern notions of cultural patrimony existed.