Aspendos discovery: 1,800-year-old statue of Asclepius found

Archaeologists have discovered an 1,800-year-old marble statue complex in the ancient Greek city of Aspendos, located in modern-day Antalya, Turkey. The find, standing approximately 2.20 meters tall, depicts Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine, alongside his son and assistant, Telephorus.

Telephorus, often depicted as a hooded young figure, symbolizes recovery and the return to health. The inclusion of both figures is considered highly significant as it iconographically represents the entire cycle of healing, from illness to full recuperation.

The statues were located near the Monumental Gate in a prominent area that was once one of the busiest streets during the Roman period. This placement suggests that the worship of Asclepius was integrated into the daily public life and urban fabric of Aspendos, rather than being confined to isolated healing sanctuaries.

Researchers date the sculpture to the late 2nd century AD, a period of prosperity for Aspendos under the Roman Empire. Turkish Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy described the discovery as the "return of healing to the light" after nearly two millennia.