In a previous post I covered some of the legal battles of the Maetreum of Cybele. Well this is now some good news on that front. Judge George J. Pulver, Jr. of the Greene County ruled that the town of Catskill’s denial of tax exemption for the Maetreum of Cybele appears to be outright religious discrimination.Both the article itself and Jason Pitzl-Waters at the Wild Hunt point out that the case is not yet over, but that Maestrem has been granted a stay from all foreclosure proceeding as a result of the discrimination. Maestrem’s own page on their legal updates stated that the judge “communicated that the Town would be well advised to settle with us now.” This statement is a major victory after so many years of fighting. Congrads to the Maetreum!
I also reported on the altar of the 12 Gods being re-discovered in Athens . The altar was discovered during renovation work on the Piraeus-Kifissia electric railway. This find is HUGE. It was the center of ancient Athens, and so re-draws all the previous maps of the city. Well it appears that the railroad is trying to bury this discovery and continue building right over it. There is already a petition to stop the railway from destroying this sacred site, sponsored by Thiasos Phoibos. The petitions states:
Very recently, during constructions on the railway network of Athens, a magnificent Treasure of the Hellenic History was discovered, a masterpiece of the Hellenic Culture, the Sacred Altar of the 12 Gods. Now this Treasure is in immediate danger because of the lack of interest of the Hellenic State, because of the decision of the railway company to bury it as quick as possible. And also know that the Altar and its very site were the center of Athens in Ancient Years. The holiest spot of Athens. Where Hiketes (suppliants) would ask for Mercy! As archaeologists say, it is as important as the golden-elephantine statue of Goddess Athena! This Altar is not only an archaeological remain. It is also Sacred, especially to us, the followers of the Hellenic Ancient Religion. The total devastation of it, means that the Hellenic Culture has been mutilated by the ignorant and dangerous people who rule and they do not respect who they are, where they come from, and especially where they want to lead us.
I’ve already signed it. Please consider adding your voice.