CroatiaDuring construction work on a high-speed railway in Israel, archaeologists discovered two exceptionally well-preserved marble statues dating back approximately 1700 years. The statues were found carefully buried face-down in a wine storage pit within a Roman-Byzantine era vineyard near Beit Shemesh. The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) announced the discovery, calling it one of the most significant finds in recent decades. Experts described the find as rare and important for understanding the history and art of the period. The statues, known as 'protomes' depicting the head and upper torso of two unknown men, were placed face-down, suggesting they were intentionally hidden after the vineyard ceased operations. One statue bears a Greek inscription naming it 'Lycurgus,' while the other appears to depict a philosopher or scholar due to its long beard. The reason for their burial remains unclear, though theories suggest protection from iconoclastic destruction during the rise of Christianity or fear of war and looting.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced account of the archaeological discovery, quoting multiple experts and presenting various theories without favoring any particular perspective. It focuses on the historical and cultural significance of the find rather than taking a stance on political issues.
