In a remarkable archaeological discovery, a 1,700-year-old Roman marble bust has been unearthed during excavations in the ancient city of Soli Pompeiopolis, located in the southern province of Mersin, Turkey. The bust, described as a “wonder of art” by the excavation team, is believed to depict a Roman aristocrat or commander who lived in the ancient city at the end of the 2nd century or the beginning of the 3rd century.
Uncovering the Treasures of Soli Pompeiopolis
The excavations in the ancient city of Soli Pompeiopolis have yielded a wealth of artifacts, including statues of gods, streets lined with columns featuring busts of emperors and senior managers, as well as the discovery of a theater, a Roman bath, the city’s harbor, and an aqueduct. These findings have shed light on the rich history and significance of this once-thriving ancient city.
A Glimpse into the Past
The ancient city of Soli Pompeiopolis has a long and storied history, with evidence of settlements dating back to the Neolithic period, as well as the Hellenistic and Roman eras. The newly discovered portrait bust is a remarkable example of the artistic and cultural achievements of the Roman Empire during the Severan Dynasty, which ruled the empire between 193 and 235 AD.
A Masterpiece of Roman Sculpture
The 82-cm-long and 60-cm-wide bust depicts a bearded man with a stern expression, and the technical style of the sculpture is characteristic of the Antonine Dynasty, which ruled the Roman Empire from 96 AD to 192 AD. However, archaeologists believe that the portrait bust was sculpted during the Severan Dynasty, when Roman sculptors often utilized the techniques of the Antonine period.
The Significance of Soli Pompeiopolis
The ancient city of Soli Pompeiopolis was once a thriving port and an important hub of trade and commerce in the region. The excavations have uncovered the remains of the city’s main road, which led from the northern gate to the port, and the 41 columns that still stand along this route are a testament to the city’s former grandeur.
A Promising Future for Soli Pompeiopolis
As the excavations continue, archaeologists believe that the ancient city of Soli Pompeiopolis will receive as much attention and recognition as the renowned archaeological site of Ephesus in western Turkey. The artifacts and architectural remains uncovered so far have already provided valuable insights into the rich history and cultural heritage of this remarkable ancient city.
The discovery of the 1,700-year-old Roman bust in Soli Pompeiopolis is a remarkable achievement that sheds light on the artistic and cultural accomplishments of the Roman Empire during the Severan Dynasty. This find, along with the numerous other artifacts uncovered at the site, underscores the immense historical and archaeological significance of this ancient city. As the excavations continue, the ancient city of Soli Pompeiopolis is poised to become a major focal point for scholars and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into the past and a promise of further discoveries yet to come.
