Greece culture minister Paul Geroulanos has tendered his resignation following an armed robbery at the Museum of the History of the Olympic Games, Olympia.

The incident took place on 17 February, with items such as clay figurines, vases and lamps among around 65 artefacts looted from the attraction by the thieves.

According to a statement from the culture and tourism ministry, the thieves were armed with guns and sledgehammers and overpowered a security guard.

Geroulanos quit after visiting the museum, but it is reported Prime Minister Lucas Papademos will not accept his resignation until all the facts are known.

A spokesperson for the culture and tourism ministry said: "The keeper of the museum was attacked by two robbers, who had covered their faces and carried guns and sledgehammers.

"Once they had immobilized the guard of the museum, the perpetrators broke the windows and removed a total of 65 exhibits."

Details: www.yppo.gr (GR)