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Sharon Waxman's new book Loot: The Battle Over Stolen Treasures of the Ancient World takes readers through centuries of archaeological treasures stolen from their native lands. Many countries are now fighting back and demanding that their national heritage be returned. There is controversy over where these treasures belong and some of the most famous museums in the world are battling to keep them. The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the J. Paul Getty Museum are at the center of these issues, along with the Louvre and the British Museum . Waxman devotes an entire chapter to the fate of Marion True, the former curator of the Getty Villa in Malibu. See where Sharon Waxman is speaking next or listen to a discussion with her on KQED's FORUM show.

Through October 26th, artifacts relating to the emperor Hadrian from 28 museums around the world will be on exhibit at the British Museum . Hadrian, one of the Modern Traveler's favorite emperors, was known for stabilizing the vast borders of the Roman Empire, his great love for Greek culture, his reconstruction of the Pantheon , and his relationship with Antinous, a Greek youth who died in Egypt. So if you find yourself in London (hopefully on your way to Rome!) be sure to visit this very special exhibition.