Archaeologists exploring the island of Salamis off the coast of Greece have made a significant discovery. During an extensive underwater excavation project, a partially submerged building and marble treasures dating back to the 4th century B.C. were uncovered. The Greek Ministry of Culture unveiled these findings, sharing images of the remains and artifacts on Facebook. This recently discovered building is believed to be a massive public building that was once part of the ancient city of Salamis.
The research focused on Ampelaki Bay, a historically significant cove along the eastern shore of Salamis. Salamis itself is famous for the Battle of Salamis, a crucial victory for the Greeks during the Greco-Persian Wars. The island also holds literary and historical significance, with mentions in Homer’s “Iliad” and an account by the Greek geographer Pausanias.
The public building discovered by archaeologists is known as a stoa, a freestanding covered walkway commonly found in marketplaces. The one found in Salamis measures approximately 20 feet wide and 105 feet long, with the remains of six or seven internal rooms. Within the building, archaeologists found a large storage area containing various ancient artifacts, such as coins, marble fragments, vases, and ceramics. These items date back to the Classical-Hellenistic period, with some relics potentially from the Early Byzantine and Late Middle Ages.
Among the discovered artifacts, two marble pieces stand out. One is a fragment of a column with an inscription, providing valuable insights into the history and purpose of the building. The other artifact is an ornate fragment depicting a large man placing a crown on a bearded man, showcasing the craftsmanship of the time.
This significant discovery adds to our understanding of the ancient city of Salamis and its cultural and historical importance. The underwater excavation project conducted by the Greek Ministry of Culture highlights the ongoing efforts to preserve and uncover Greece’s rich heritage. As more artifacts and secrets are revealed, researchers continue to shed light on the past, unlocking stories that have remained hidden for centuries.
