A significant archaeological discovery was made near Thessaloniki, Greece, when an ancient marble statue was found discarded in a garbage bag. The statue, which is believed to be over 2,000 years old, was located by a local resident next to a trash bin in Neoi Epivates, a town near Greece’s second-largest city. The statue, measuring 80 centimeters, was quickly assessed by archaeologists, who confirmed it dates back to the Hellenistic period. This era, which followed the conquests of Alexander the Great, is renowned for its advancements in art and culture. The statue is now being examined and will be preserved by local antiquities authorities for further study.

Following the discovery, the police initiated an investigation to identify the individual responsible for discarding the statue. Although a man was briefly detained for questioning, he was later released without charge. This event is part of a long tradition of accidental archaeological finds in Greece, which is known for its ancient history. Such discoveries often occur during public projects, such as construction work. For instance, a Roman-era statue of Hermes was recently uncovered during the installation of a gas pipeline near Athens. These findings are crucial as they offer valuable insights into Greece’s heritage, highlighting the importance of preserving cultural artifacts for future generations.