Turkey uncovers 2,500‑year‑old marble statue at Sardis

Turkey’s Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced that a 2.2‑metre marble statue of a young man, dating to the early 5th century BCE, has been uncovered at the ancient city of Sardis in the Salihli district of Manisa. The statue, found in two large fragments, is remarkably well preserved, showing detailed clothing that reflects Lydian cultural influences and a fruit held in the figure’s hand.

The monument was originally reused as a building stone during the Roman period, positioned face‑down which helped protect it over the centuries. Ongoing scientific examination and conservation work will investigate possible ancient paint traces, after which the statue is slated for display at the Manisa Museum.