Archaeologists uncover rich trove of gold antiquities in Greek town

Recent excavations in a lesser-known ancient Greek town near Aigio in the Peloponnese have led to the discovery of a significant archaeological site, believed to be part of the ancient town of Rypes. 

Archaeologists believe gold artifacts are connected to the ancient town of Rypes, which was mentioned by the Greek geographer Pausanias, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

Rypes was founded by the Pelasgians, an ancient people referenced in both Greek historical and mythological traditions. The Pelasgians are regarded as some of the earliest settlers of the Aegean region and parts of the Greek mainland, appearing in ancient texts and legends as pre-Greek inhabitants who lived on the land before the arrival of the Hellenic tribes.

The coastal town was subsequently settled by the Ionians before it was destroyed and abandoned around 30 BC by the Romans.

As per the Greek Ministry of Culture, archaeologists uncovered the floor of a public building beneath the rubble, which is estimated to have been built before 300 BC.

A 16.80-meter-long foundation supporting a series of columns was also completely uncovered, along with fragments of Corinthian semi-columns that are currently being restored on the facade.

The diameter and overall height of the columns suggest they are of the Peloponnesian type, similar to those found in the Temple of Apollo at Bassae. The excavation data so far indicates a monumental appearance, standing three meters tall.

Beneath the rubble covering the building's facade, archaeologists uncovered three crouching marble lion statues and a marble funerary stele depicting a youthful male figure. All of these sculptures were carved from Pentelic marble, with the lions placed on separate stone bases.

Inside the building, in a later phase of its use, archaeologists discovered intact burials in cist tombs and a sarcophagus, which contained valuable offerings of significant artistic value.

Among the findings were a pair of gold earrings featuring lion heads on top, a solid earring depicting a naked winged love holding a scepter in his right hand and a wreath in his left, a gold necklace with ends terminating in solid lion busts, a gold ring, a gold Persian coin, a Charon obol with a turtle on the obverse, two iron buttons surrounded by cloth, and an iron stele.

By Naila Huseynova