Zeus Discovery in Ancient Aphrodisias: “As if He Were a Breathing God”

The ancient city of Aphrodisias, located in the Geyre neighborhood of Karacasu district in Aydın province, western Turkey, has long been celebrated for its exceptional marble sculptures. Recently, this iconic city of sculptors added another remarkable find to its legacy—a marble ‘Zeus head’—unearthed during ongoing excavations.

The discovery was announced by Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, Turkey’s Minister of Culture and Tourism, who described it as a “unique discovery in Aphrodisias.” The colossal marble head, which had remained buried for centuries, was found near the surface, 50 meters (164 feet) west of the Temple of Aphrodite.

Stone head of Zeus, found near the Temple of Aphrodite, in Aphrodisias, Turkey. (Minister of Culture and Tourism of Turkey)

The Marvel of Aphrodisias: Zeus Brought to Life

The bearded Zeus head, measuring 66 centimeters (26 inches) in height, was crafted in the 2nd-3rd century AD from a single block of medium-grained Aphrodisias marble. Preliminary cleaning and conservation efforts have revealed the head’s intricate details, showcasing the mastery of the city’s renowned sculptors.

In a statement from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Zeus head was praised for its magnificent craftsmanship.

“The magnificent drill work on the hair and beard belongs to a top Aphrodisias sculpture workshop,” the statement read.

The realistic depiction of Zeus, with its sophisticated techniques, gives the marble sculpture an almost lifelike quality, “as if he were a breathing god.”

This discovery not only highlights the artistic skill of Aphrodisian sculptors but also reinforces the historical significance of the city as a major center for marble sculpture in the Roman world.

Temple of Aphrodite at Aphrodisias, Aydin, Turkey. (Esin Deniz/Adobe Stock)

Aphrodisias: A Hub of Ancient Artistry

Aphrodisias, situated in the upper valley of the Morsynus River, is a city steeped in history and artistry. Established a century after the construction of the Temple of Aphrodite in the third century BC, the city’s wealth and fame were largely derived from its nearby marble quarries and the exceptional sculptures produced by its artisans, informs Arkeonews.

The city’s reputation for marble sculpture was well-known across the Roman Empire. Aphrodisian sculptors were highly sought after in major centers such as Sardis, Stratonikeia, Laodikeia, Constantinople, and Rome. Their work, which included virtuoso portrait sculptures and statues of gods and Dionysian figures, exemplified the highest levels of craftsmanship in the Hellenistic and Roman styles.

The Legacy of Aphrodisias’ Sculptors

Aphrodisias occupied a special place in the Roman world, not only because of its abundant marble resources but also due to the exceptional quality of its sculptures. The methods employed by its artists, the caliber of the regional artistic design, and the creation of sophisticated portrait sculpture set the city apart.

The newly discovered Zeus head adds to the rich tapestry of Aphrodisias’ history, offering a glimpse into the artistic brilliance that once flourished in this ancient city. As archaeologists continue to explore and preserve these treasures, Aphrodisias’ legacy as a center of art and culture in the ancient world becomes ever more vivid.

Top image: Stone head of Zeus, found in ancient Aphrodisias, Turkey   Source: Minister of Culture and Tourism of Turkey

By Gary Manners