Police in Greece are investigating the discovery of an ancient Greek statue found dumped in a black plastic bag near garbage cans in Thessaloniki on January 22, 2025. The statue, believed to be from the Hellenistic period, was brought to the police by a 32-year-old man who found it near dustbins.
- Ancient Greek statue found in Thessaloniki
- Investigated by organized crime unit
- Statue dates back to Hellenistic period
- Transferred for lab tests and evaluation
- Illegal antiquities traffic remains a concern
- Similar discoveries of ancient artifacts in Europe
The discovery of the statue highlights ongoing concerns regarding the illegal trafficking of antiquities in Greece. Authorities are particularly vigilant due to the country’s rich archaeological heritage, which frequently yields new finds during construction and roadwork. The statue measures 32 by 10 inches and is currently undergoing assessment by the archaeology service.
Key details include:
- Statue is headless and dates back to the Hellenistic period (323-31 BC).
- Initial assessment by authorities confirms its historical significance.
- It will be transferred for further analysis and conservation.
Similar incidents of ancient artifacts being found in trash have occurred in Europe. In 2023, a Roman-era statuette of Venus was discovered in a dump in France, and ancient bronze statues were found in Tuscany, Italy. These events underscore the ongoing challenges of preserving cultural heritage amidst modern waste management practices.
The investigation into the statue found in Thessaloniki is part of broader efforts to combat the illegal trade in antiquities. As authorities continue to explore the origins of this statue, it serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting and valuing historical artifacts.
