Authorities in Greece are investigating the mysterious discovery of a 2,000-year-old statue found abandoned near garbage bins in the northern city of Thessaloniki. The headless artifact, initially spotted in a black plastic bag by a 32-year-old man, has been identified by archaeologists as dating back to the Hellenistic period (323–31 BC). Measuring 32 by 10 inches, the statue is now set to undergo laboratory tests and conservation efforts.
The discovery has raised questions about how such a significant piece of cultural heritage ended up discarded in a public area. Greece, home to countless ancient artifacts, has long struggled with the illegal trafficking of antiquities. The country’s rich history means that archaeological finds are not uncommon, often unearthed during construction projects or public works.
This incident is the latest in a series of accidental discoveries highlighting Greece’s deep historical roots. In December, a Roman-era statue of Hermes was found during pipeline installation near Athens. Similarly, Thessaloniki’s recently opened metro system revealed a treasure trove of artifacts, including a Roman road and thousands of items from various historical periods, now displayed in subway stations.
The phenomenon of ancient artifacts being found in unlikely places is not unique to Greece. In recent years, similar discoveries have been made across Europe. For example, a Roman-era statuette of Venus was found in a trash dump in Rennes, France, in 2023, while ancient bronze statues were uncovered in a Tuscan garbage dump the same year. In 2013, a carved stone head believed to depict a Roman god was discovered in an ancient trash site in England.
The Thessaloniki statue’s discovery underscores the challenges faced by authorities in protecting cultural heritage. While the artifact’s origins and how it came to be discarded remain unclear, its recovery highlights the importance of vigilance in preserving historical treasures.
As the investigation continues, the statue will be transferred to specialists for further analysis. Its eventual placement in a museum or cultural institution will ensure that this piece of ancient history is safeguarded for future generations.
