Impressive Discovery: 7th Century AD Statue Head Found in an Important City Named After an Ancient Greek God

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The French archaeological mission from the University of Lyon and the French Institute of Oriental Archaeology, led by Dr. Joachim le Bomin, discovered a marble head of a statue representing an elderly man, dating back to the Ptolemaic Period.

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An impressive 7th-century AD statue head has been discovered in an important Egyptian city named after the Greeks. Photo: egyptindependent

The head was found among the ruins of a 7th-century AD house during an expedition in Greater Taposiris, 45 kilometers west of Alexandria, as announced by Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathy.

Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, explained that the large size of the discovered head, at 38 centimeters tall—larger than an actual human head—suggests that it was part of a colossal statue likely situated in an important public building rather than a private residence. Mohamed Abdel-Badi, head of the antiquities department at the Supreme Council of Antiquities, noted that the head is intricately carved with realistic features, highlighting the artistic realism that flourished during the Late Hellenistic Period.

Findings from Initial Studies

Preliminary studies have revealed that the head depicts an elderly, bald man with a wrinkled face, exuding severity and signs of illness. Studies suggest that the man was a notable figure in public life. Abdel-Badie further stated that studies indicate the statue was of a prominent public figure, not a king, underscoring the importance of the city of Greater Taposiris from the era of Ptolemy IV onwards.

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Excavation Site (Photo: egypttoday).

Dr. Joachim le Bomin confirms that the mission continues its work at the site to understand why the head was found in a house, despite it being 700 years older than the house’s construction. The mission is also conducting more detailed examinations of the head to identify its subject, and has initiated restoration and conservation efforts.

The Significance of Greater Taposiris

Taposiris Magna is one of the most crucial archaeological sites on Egypt’s northern coast, known for its sacred significance during the Greco-Roman and Byzantine periods. The site houses a large temple dedicated to the god Osiris, from whom the city derives its Greek name. The name originates from the ancient Egyptian phrase “Per Wsir,” meaning “House of Osiris.” Key features of the site include:

  • The Temple of Abu Sir.
  • The Plantain Tombs and extensive cemeteries to the east and west of the temple.
  • The Abu Sir Lighthouse, resembling the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, lending the area its modern name, Borg El-Arab.
  • Byzantine period houses, ports, markets, and a basilica near Lake Mareotis.

Since 1998, the French Institute of Oriental Archaeology has been conducting excavations and restoration work at Taposiris Magna, focusing on areas such as:

  • The Ptolemaic Baths: An exceptionally well-preserved public bath with a unique design unparalleled in Egypt.
  • The Plantain Tombs: Ongoing excavations and conservation work in these Ptolemaic era tombs.
  • The southern area of Lake Mareotis, which encompasses the commercial port, housing, and Byzantine markets.

The ongoing work highlights the historical, religious, and cultural significance of the area, enriching its rich heritage.

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