According to latest information, the analysis of the skeletal remains that were unearthed in Amphipolis is likely to be assigned to one of the Greek laboratories specializing in archaeometry.

Katerina Peristeri, head of the dig at Kasta Tomb is expected to announce the decision by the end of the week and Minister of Culture Costas Tassoulas will probably reveal the name of the Greek academic institution that will attempt to solve the mystery of the skeleton at a press conference that will take place at the Museum of Amphipolis on Saturday, November 22.

According to academic sources, Ms. Peristeri’s intention is to prevent the transfer of the bones to a laboratory abroad. This decision is not based on “patriotic” feelings, but rather on the need to protect the highly sensitive and fragile bones from further damage.

Ms. Peristeri reportedly wants to be in constant and direct communication with the laboratory which will study, probably for a period of 6-8 months the skeleton and this will not be possible if the bones are sent to a research institute outside the Greek borders. And although a fast-track procedure would normally apply if the Culture Ministry decided to go on with the export, the assignment of the analysis to a local institute would practically mean zero paperwork.