Archaeologists Discover 2,500-Year-Old Marble Statue in Sardis

Archaeologists have uncovered a 2,500-year-old marble statue in the ancient city of Sardis, located in the Salihli district of Manisa, Turkey. The Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism announced the discovery in August 2026. The statue, which dates back to the fifth century B.C., measures approximately 7.2 feet tall and depicts a young man. It was found face-down, having been repurposed as paving during the Roman period, which helped preserve its features over the centuries. Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy described the find as significant, noting the statue's clothing reflects Lydian culture. The statue is expected to provide insights into the life, religious beliefs, and cultural interactions in Sardis during its historical period. Following conservation efforts, the statue will be displayed at the Manisa Museum. Sardis was historically the capital of the Lydian Kingdom and is mentioned in the Book of Revelation as one of the seven churches in Asia Minor.