Archaeologists have recently discovered a statue of Hercules in Philippi, Greece, which dates back over 2000 years

Archaeologists have recently discovered a statue of Hercules in Philippi, Greece, which dates back over 2000 years.

The statue, representing the Roman God Hercules (equivalent to the Greek Heracles and son of Zeus), symbolizes triumph over personal struggles and is revered as a protector of the vulnerable. Dating from 2 A.D., the statue was found attached to a building that dates from 7-8 A.D. A lavishly adorned structure, possibly a fountain, was also unearthed in close proximity to the statue.

Philippi has long been recognized as an important archaeological site, and this discovery of a large Roman statue in the town square is one of the most significant findings thus far. Founded by Philip II, the King of Macedon, Philippi was established on the Thasian colony of Crenides near the Aegean Sea. However, it was abandoned after the Ottoman conquest in the 14th century. Despite its known archaeological value, excavation of the site did not take place until 1914.

The statue depicts the demigod Hercules holding a club and carrying a lion pelt adorned with a wreath of vine leaves, reflecting his triumphant posture. While it was customary during the Byzantine period to decorate buildings and public spaces with Roman statues like this, experts note that the size and quality of this particular statue are remarkably impressive.

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