The head of a beardless young man crowned with a wreath of laurels, most likely belonging to a statue of Apollo, is among the findings in Philippi excavation site in northern Greece.
The head dated to the 2nd or early 3rd century AD, the culture ministry said in a statement.
Head at the excavation site (above) and cleaned for preservation (below)
Excavations at the Philippi archeological site in northeastern Greece was conducted by students of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and were concluded last September.
Excavation site of Philippi
The excavations continued east of the southern main street (decumanus) at the point where it meets the northern axis of the city (the Via Egnatia), revealing part of a square dominated by a richly decorated building.
A coin featuring Byzantine Emperor Leo VI (886-912), found on a stretch of marble-paved road, helped determine the duration of its use.
The ministry said statues from the Classical and Roman periods adorned buildings and public spaces in Byzantine cities including Philippi. Founded in 356 BC, Philippi lies on an ancient route linking Europe and Asia, the Via Egnatia.
The excavation will continue next year, the culture ministry said.
pictures: culture ministry
