Ancient Roman Statue Discovered in Varna!
Archaeologists in Varna, Bulgaria, recently made an exciting discovery – an ancient Roman statue dating back to the 2nd or 3rd century AD. The find sheds light on the region's rich history, particularly during the Roman period, when Varna, known then as Odessos, was a significant centre of Roman influence.
A Brief History of Odessos
Odessos was originally established as an ancient Greek colony in the 6th century BC by settlers from Miletus, located along the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast. Built on top of an earlier Thracian settlement, the city flourished as a key Greek hub before falling under Roman control around AD 15. Under the Romans, Odessos became part of the province of Moesia (later Moesia Inferior) and quickly gained prominence, especially for its grand public baths, or thermae. These thermal baths were a hallmark of Roman urban life and a reflection of the city’s growing importance.
Odessos continued to prosper into the Byzantine era, earning the title of "sacratissima civitas," or the holiest city, in 6th-century imperial documents, due to its numerous basilicas and religious institutions, including a monophysite monastery.
Photo Credit: BTA
The Recent Discovery
The recent unearthing of the Roman statue occurred during construction work just outside the ancient city walls. Fortunately, the construction team acted quickly, notifying the Regional History Museum in Varna, whose archaeological team immediately arrived on-site to assess the discovery.
According to experts, the statue is a near-complete marble sculpture from the 2nd to 3rd century AD, depicting a Roman man of high social status. Standing larger than life, the figure is dressed in a toga, a distinctive Roman garment that symbolized the status of its wearer. In his left hand, he holds a scroll, a detail that further emphasizes the man's prominence, possibly as a scholar or official.
The craftsmanship and style of the statue are characteristic of the "togate" statues, a tradition in Roman sculpture that dates back to the Augustan Era. Such statues were often used to immortalize important individuals, capturing not only their likeness but also their social standing.
Photo Credit: BTA
Who Was Gaius Marius Hermogenes?
What makes this discovery even more intriguing is the inscription found on the statue’s marble pedestal. It names the figure as "Gaius Marius Hermogenes," a figure who was likely a high-ranking official or influential figure in Odessos during the Roman period. Despite some minor damage to the face and right hand, the statue remains remarkably well-preserved, offering a valuable glimpse into Roman art and society in ancient Bulgaria.
This discovery not only adds to our understanding of Odessos' Roman past but also highlights the enduring legacy of Roman culture in the region. As archaeologists continue to study the statue, we may learn even more about the life and times of Gaius Marius Hermogenes and the role he played in ancient Odessos.