Marble statue of Athena discovered in Laodicea

Archaeologists have discovered a nearly two-meter-tall marble statue of the goddess Athena in the ancient city of Laodicea, located in the Denizli province of Türkiye. The find was announced by the Turkish Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, on April 23, 2026. The statue was located during excavation and restoration work at the site's West Theatre, specifically near the outer wall of the stage area known as the postskene. The artifact was found lying facedown among debris and is currently missing its head. Experts attribute the work to the Augustan period, dating it between 27 BC and 14 AD. The sculpture features high artistic detail, including drapery and a depiction of Medusa on the chest. The site is noted for its cultural significance, having served as a theater and a venue for Homeric recitations.