Ancient Hermes Statue Unearthed in Aspendos, Turkey!
An extraordinary discovery has been made in the ancient city of Aspendos, located in the Antalya province of Türkiye. Archaeologists have uncovered a stunning marble statue of Hermes, the messenger god of Greek mythology. This remarkable find is part of the "Heritage for the Future" project, spearheaded by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, which has also yielded fragments of statues depicting Aphrodite, Eros, Artemis, and Nemesis.
A Treasure Trove of Ancient Artistry
Aspendos, a significant Greco-Roman city, flourished particularly under Roman rule after its annexation in 190 BCE. Renowned for its impressive architectural heritage, the city boasts one of the best-preserved ancient theatres, built in 155 CE by the architect Zenon, with a seating capacity of up to 15,000 spectators. Other remarkable ruins include a stadium, baths, a basilica, an agora, a monumental fountain (nymphaeum), and a sophisticated aqueduct system that showcases the engineering prowess of the Romans.
Photo Credit: Turkey’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism
The Hermes Statue: A Testament to Roman Influence
The newly discovered Hermes statue was found among the ruins of the grand nymphaeum near Aspendos' southern entrance gate. Measuring 1.65 metres in height, it presents Hermes draped in a cloak, holding a money pouch in his right hand and his signature staff, the caduceus, in his left. At his left foot, a ram—a symbol of strength and protection in Greek culture—is sculpted resting beside him. Based on stylistic analysis, experts estimate the statue dates back to the late 2nd to early 3rd centuries CE, a period reflecting strong Roman artistic influences.
Turkish Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, shared the exciting news via social media, stating: "In Aspendos, the silent witness of time, figures that have remained buried for centuries have come to light. I extend my gratitude to the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage and Museums for their contributions to this project, and I hope these artefacts will enrich our country’s cultural and tourism landscape."
Reassembling the Past
After being unearthed, the Hermes statue was carefully transported to the restoration depot for reassembly. Experts have noted that the statue’s stance—weight shifted onto the left foot with the right knee slightly bent—demonstrates the movement and realism characteristic of Roman sculpture.
Alongside Hermes, archaeologists also uncovered the marble heads of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, and Eros, the god of love. These sculptures are believed to reflect a unique regional style that captures the artistic ideals of the time. Additionally, fragments of statues representing Artemis, the goddess of hunting and wildlife, and Nemesis, the goddess of justice and retribution, have been recovered from the same area.
Aspendos: A City Steeped in History
Aspendos has a rich history dating back to the 5th century BCE when it was a member of the Delian League and even minted its own currency. Following the Persian fleet’s defeat off its shores in 468 BCE, the city grew in prominence before coming under Roman control in 133 BCE. The 2nd and 3rd centuries CE marked a period of significant architectural and economic development for Aspendos, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate historians and visitors alike.
Today, Aspendos remains one of Türkiye’s most important archaeological sites, drawing history enthusiasts from around the world. With the latest discoveries, the city’s ancient splendour continues to be revealed, shedding light on its remarkable past and enriching our understanding of Greco-Roman civilisation.