The highly polluted and salt-laden atmosphere of Greece is discussed, in relation to damaging effects on metals, ancient monuments and statues. The marble statues are crusted with gypsum (CaSO₄ . 2H₂O) if sheltered, or pitted and cracked if exposed to rain. Bacteria and deposits of colloidal particles further destroy the marble and gypsum. Steel reinforcements, now corroded, are causing cracks in stonework, and titanium replacements are recommended. Chemical methods of Converting gypsum to CaCO₃ are being developed; one employing CO₂ at eight atmospheres and 70°C is successful, provided the statues may be transported. Thirty types of protective coating were tried, and rejected. Acetone-soluble biocides can be used but the particulate deposits cannot yet be removed. An appendix lists proposed conservation measures: removal of many statues to climatized museums is recommended. -- AATA