2,000-year-old Greek statue discovered abandoned in bag near trash bins – priceless Hellenistic gem

A ancient marble statue dating back more than 2,000 years was discovered in a black bag near trash cans in a residential area of ​​Thessaloniki, Greece. According to a press release from the Greek police on January 22, the artifact was handed over by a 32-year-old man to local authorities on January 18.

The unexpected discovery

The statue, found in Thessaloniki Thermaikos districtwas delivered to Thermaikos Criminal Investigation and Prosecution Department. The authorities immediately involved an archaeologist from Ephory of Antiquitieswho confirmed his Hellenistic period (323 BC – 30 BC) origins. Greek police said the artifact fell under Greek antiquities legislation, which classifies all archaeological finds as state property.

Estelle Strazdins, expert in classical studies of Australian National University offered insight into the artistic and cultural significance of the statue. The statue loose draperies and marble material suggest that it represents a goddess and was probably used as a temple offering. Strazdins said The Washington Post:

“The fact that it is marble suggests that it was probably enshrined in a temple. Due to its size – approximately 30 inches (0.76 meters) – it would not be the main statue of the shrine, but it could be a gift that someone gave to the god either for the to thank for something, or in the hope of obtaining it. kind of subsidy.

Ongoing investigations

Authorities have opened an investigation into how the statue ended up being abandoned near trash bins. THE Cultural Heritage Protection Office of the Greek Police is leading efforts to trace its origins and potential links to illegal trafficking of antiquities. CNN reported that a man was briefly detained for questioning, then released without charges.

This discovery highlights current challenges in the fight against unauthorized trade in cultural objectsa particularly important problem in regions like Greece with a rich archaeological heritage.

Preservation and study

The statue was seized by the police and sent to Sub-Directorate of Forensic Investigations of Northern Greece for laboratory examination. Once analyzed, it will be returned to the Ephory of Antiquitiesresponsible for the preservation and study of ancient objects. Experts hope to uncover details about its exact origin, artistic style and cultural context.

The historical context of Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, founded in 315 BC by Cassander of Macedonhas been a key cultural and economic center for centuries. Its history as a crossroads of Greek, Roman and Byzantine civilizations makes it a treasure trove of archaeological discoveries. The discovery of this statue adds to its legacy as a city deeply connected to the art and religion of ancient Greece.

This unexpected discovery highlights the enduring legacy of Hellenistic Greece and the challenges of preserving this heritage. It recalls the cultural richness of Thessaloniki while emphasizing the importance of continued efforts to protect historical objects from theft and neglect.

As authorities investigate the artifact’s journey to its unlikely resting place, the statue provides an invaluable link to the past, one that waits to be fully understood.

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