Magnificent Ancient Mosaic Unearthed in Athens, Greece

Significant hoard of antiquities were uncovered during excavations in Theatrou Square that were part of a project carried out by the Municipality of Athens. According to the Ministry of Culture, the antiquities were discovered in the southern part of the square at an average depth of 1 meter.

The information collected to date has already established they are the architectural remains of an extensive, late Roman building complex. Different rooms low in height have been partially revealed in the structure. Marble stone used as a pillar surround the middle room, which has a side length of 7.40 meters.

According to the same announcement by the Ministry of Culture, opus sectile marble and mosaic with stylized floral and geometric decorations covered the floors. Some parts were  in good condition, attesting to the quality of the Roman-built structure. Previous excavations in adjacent properties have also revealed architectural features such as masonry and mosaic floors that seem to belong to the same complex.

Further investigation of the remains is expected to yield enough artefacts for identification and precise chronological documentation. The aim is to uncover even more ancient Greek treasure.

The main goal of the Ministry of Culture and Sports is the shedding of light on unknown aspects of the historical and archaeological development of the Athens center as well as their preservation. Simultaneously, efforts are being made to avoid delays in the project implemented by the Municipality of Athens for the Square’s redevelopment.

Other ancient treasures discovered in Athens excavations

Archaeologists recently unearthed an array of ancient treasures in Athens after workers stumbled upon the masterpieces while doing routine construction on Aiolou Street.

One recent discovery was the head of Hermes on Aiolou Street, found at a depth of just 1.3 meters (4 feet 4 inches), a story that went internationally viral at once. In every part of the city, other ancient historic relics are also constantly being dug up.

The discovery of Hermes is nevertheless an important find. For that reason, the Ministry of Culture is celebrating by compiling a brief history of the area and their findings there. It has additionally begun restoration of the marvelous pieces hidden under the streets for ages.

Aiolou Street itself lies about 800 meters (2,624 feet) from the foot of the Acropolis Hill. Though now very busy and noisy, it has been part of the Athenian landscape  as far back as the archaic period. It has thus played a prominent role in the timeless ancient history of the capitol of Greece, as proven by the excavations beginning in the late 19th century.