Lions, and a winged gold Eros: Major discovery in Greece sparks buzz among historians

Archaeologists in Greece found an ancient monumental building adorned with marble lion sculptures and gold artifacts. The excavation began in early October near Aigio on the Peloponnese peninsula, about five miles southwest of the modern city, which is associated with an ancient city in the Achaea region, according to Newsweek.

The building, identified by the gamma symbol ('Γ'), is believed to date to before 300 BCE, as reported by Newsweek [https://www.newsweek.com/archaeologist-reveal-ancient-greek-monument-gold-artifact-1999417]. The building contains marble lion statues, all carved from Pentelic marble, and various gold artifacts.

Researchers focused their efforts on this structure, uncovering various stone blocks and evidence of columns. Among the significant elements revealed was the impressive 55-foot-long kerb of the structure's southern side, Newsweek reported.

Buried beneath the debris at the site, archaeologists unearthed pieces of several lion figures, masterfully carved from Pentelic marble. The white stone, sourced from Mount Pentelikon in Attica, is admired for its warm golden glow and has been renowned for its use in ancient Greek architecture and sculpture. The most famous example of Pentelic marble is the Parthenon on the Acropolis in Athens, according to Newsweek.

Within the ancient monument, excavations revealed untouched burials and a sarcophagus. The offerings found inside the tombs indicate that their occupants were wealthy and of high social status, as reported by the Daily Express.

Noteworthy among the finds were gold earrings featuring lion head motifs. A luxurious gold earring was fashioned in the image of Eros, the winged deity of love, brandishing a scepter and a laurel in his hands.

Researchers also found an ornate gold necklace among the artifacts, the Daily Express reported.

Current evidence suggests that this may be the 'heroon' of the locality—a shrine or sanctuary dedicated to honor a hero. Heroons were typically erected at sites believed to be associated with the hero, such as their reputed tomb or a place of a significant event. Such monuments were notable features within Greek cities or sanctuaries.

Across ancient Greece, the size and complexity of these hallowed buildings differed. Heroons ranged from simple altars for reflection to large compounds housing cult statues, serving as venues for rituals such as sacrifices and grand celebrations.

The discovery has sparked a buzz among historians, the Daily Express reported. The Greek Ministry of Culture announced the excavation and celebrated this significant discovery.

The article was written with the assistance of a news analysis system.