On January 18, a Greek man discovered a headless statue dating back to the Hellenistic period in a rubbish bag in Thessaloniki. Authorities are investigating how this significant artifact came to be discarded, reflecting ongoing issues surrounding the preservation of cultural heritage in Greece.
Ancient Headless Statue Discovered in Thessaloniki Among Trash Bins
Ancient Headless Statue Discovered in Thessaloniki Among Trash Bins
A 2,000-year-old statue was found in a plastic bag in Thessaloniki, prompting investigations into its origins as experts highlight Greece's rich archaeological heritage.
On the evening of January 18, a 32-year-old Greek man approached police in Thessaloniki with an unusual item—a headless statue discovered inside a plastic bag near garbage cans. Initial investigations suggest that this artifact, depicting a female figure in a flowing draped garment, dates back to the Hellenistic period, around 323 B.C. to 31 B.C., following Alexander the Great's death.
Authorities have launched an investigation through various Greek crime and heritage protection units to uncover the origins of the statue and how such a significant relic could end up discarded. The incident highlights a recurring phenomenon in Greece, where ancient artifacts are occasionally unearthed in unusual locations due to the country's abundant historical significance.
Vasilis Tempelis from the Ministry of Culture noted that it is not uncommon for civilians to turn in statues to police stations, reiterating the challenges of managing Greece's rich archaeological finds. The Ministry has completed a preliminary assessment, classifying the statue under existing Greek antiquities protection laws, and a panel will evaluate its composition and dating further.
Dr. Bert Smith, a classic archaeology professor, described the statue as potentially representing a goddess, characteristic of small-scale votive offerings made to divine entities in sanctuaries. This practice involved dedicating artifacts to gods as a form of gratitude. The statue is about 31 inches tall and features a peplos—a traditional garment worn by deities.
Though the arms and head are missing, which might have provided context for the figure's actions and attributes, the existing form continues to draw interest among experts. The discovery underscores both the invaluable cultural wealth of Greece and the ongoing need for protection and responsible stewardship of its ancient history.
