NewsArchaeologists Reveal 2000-Year-Old Temple Full of Treasures in Greece

Archaeologists Reveal 2000-Year-Old Temple Full of Treasures in Greece

Archaeologists Reveal 2000-Year-Old Temple Full of Treasures in Greece
Images source: © GETTY | Anadolu Agency

3:58 PM EST, January 19, 2024

In an extraordinary archaeological discovery, a 2,000-year-old Greek temple laden with gold, silver, and amber has been unearthed on the island of Evia, Greece. This remarkable find, dating back to the 7th century BC, is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of ancient Greece and its enduring legacy.

During their excavation, archaeologists uncovered many treasures within the temple's confines. Among the most significant finds are ritual objects such as Corinthian alabaster, attic vases, local ritual prochos, and jewelry made of precious gold, silver, and coral. The discovery of a horseshoe-shaped altar, laden with thick layers of ash rich in charred bones, hints at the temple's long-standing use for religious ceremonies.

This site extends beyond the temple itself, with indications of earlier structures dating back to the 9th century BC. This suggests that the cult practices at this site may have origins stretching back to the post-Mycenaean period. The significance of this find is further underscored by the uncovering of Geometric period bronze figurines, adding another layer to our understanding of ancient Greek religious practices.

The Greek Ministry of Culture has hailed this discovery as "the most important to have been discovered in continental Greece in 65 years," underscoring its historical and cultural significance. This discovery enriches our understanding of ancient Greek civilization and highlights the people's advanced craftsmanship and artistic skills from that era.

Sources: CBS News, The Independent

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