A significant archaeological discovery was made in the Bulgarian village of Rupite when a well-preserved marble statue of the Greek god Hermes was uncovered in an ancient Roman sewer. The statue, standing nearly 7 feet tall, was found during excavation work at the site of the former city of Heraclea Sintica.
Despite the statue’s considerable size, Bulgarian archaeologists believe it was carefully buried in the sewer. Heraclea Sintica, located near the Greek border, was founded by Philip II of Macedon between 356 BCE and 339 BCE. The city experienced significant growth but was later destroyed by an earthquake in 388 CE. After the earthquake, the city rapidly declined and was abandoned by 500 CE.
Hermes, a messenger to the gods in the Ancient Greek pantheon, may have been placed in the sewer around the time of the earthquake. Experts speculate that this could have been done to preserve the statue or as a symbolic rejection of pagan practices, which were falling out of favour due to the rise of Christianity.
Lyudmil Vagalinski, who led the team of archaeologists from Bulgaria’s National Archaeological Museum, spoke to CNN about the discovery. “Its head is preserved,” Vagalinski said, describing the statue as a Roman copy of a Greek original and noting that it is in “perfect condition” despite a few fractures on the hands.
Vagalinski also commented on the historical context of the find: “Everything pagan was forbidden, and they have joined the new ideology, but apparently, they took care of their old deities.” This statement reflects the complex interplay between the declining pagan beliefs and the emerging dominance of Christianity during that era.
The excavation site at Heraclea Sintica has provided a wealth of historical insights. Founded by Philip II of Macedon, the city played a significant role in the region’s history before its destruction and eventual abandonment. The discovery of the Hermes statue adds another layer to our understanding of the city’s cultural and religious life during its decline.
Heraclea Sintica’s strategic location near the Greek border contributed to its historical significance. The city was a melting pot of Greek and Roman influences, as evidenced by the architectural remnants and artefacts uncovered during various excavations. Preserving the Hermes statue amidst the city’s ruins offers a glimpse into the religious practices and societal changes that occurred during the late Roman period.
The careful burial of the statue in a sewer raises intriguing questions about the intentions behind this act. Was it a desperate attempt to protect a cherished deity from the ravages of time and natural disasters, or was it a symbolic gesture of discarding the old gods in favour of new religious ideologies? The rise of Christianity during the late Roman period often led to the suppression and destruction of pagan symbols. Still, preserving the Hermes statue suggests a more nuanced approach to this transition.
Archaeological findings like the Hermes statue are crucial in piecing together the historical narratives of ancient civilisations. Each discovery sheds light on the people’s daily lives, beliefs, and cultural shifts during those times. The statue of Hermes, with its remarkable preservation and the mystery surrounding its burial, is a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient art and religion.
As excavations continue at Heraclea Sintica, archaeologists hope to uncover more artefacts to further illuminate the city’s history and inhabitants. The discovery of the Hermes statue is a significant milestone, highlighting the importance of preserving and studying ancient sites to gain a deeper understanding of our shared past.