Informed of the loss of Colin Renfrew, Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni made the following statement:

I was very saddened to learn of the loss of Colin Renfrew, a great archaeologist who leaves a great legacy and innovative approaches.

In his long scientific career, Colin Renfrew has harmoniously combined teaching with writing, research and excavation, leaving his distinctive mark in each area. His academic contributions to the prehistory of languages, radiocarbon dating, archaeogenetics and neuroarchaeology have been significant and multiply influential. This not only demonstrates the breadth of his knowledge and the depth of his scientific perspective, but also shaped a model of scientific approach based on a comprehensive overview of individual subjects, as reflected in his voluminous body of writings.

His presence in field research has always been tireless: From the prehistoric settlement of Sitagres in Drama to the Cyclades, to Phylakopi in Milos, to Markiani in Amorgos and, for years and until the end, to Keros. Perhaps it was his love for the Cycladic culture and the islands that created it that led him to dedicate himself from a very early age to the fight against antiquities theft and illegal trade in antiquities, to which he devoted enormous energy.

I was lucky enough to meet Colin Renfrew in person. I had the pleasure of admiring an impeccable combination of theory and practice, and the dedication with which he served his science. In every conversation with him, his interlocutor could easily see his great love for Greece and its culture.

I extend my sincere condolences to his family, friends and students.