Ancient Roman Statue Head Unearthed Beneath 5th-Century Basilica in Rome!
Archaeologists have made an extraordinary find during excavations at the 5th-century Christian Basilica of Santo Stefano, located in Rome’s Tombe di Via Latina archaeological park. A beautifully carved stone head, believed to represent either a Roman deity or philosopher, was uncovered within the foundations of the basilica. The marble sculpture, larger than life, features a finely detailed beard and a solemn expression, suggesting it once held significant importance before being repurposed during medieval times.
Photo Credit: Parco Archeologico dell’Appia Antica / CC BY-ND 3.0
The first sign of the discovery came when archaeologists spotted flowing marble locks emerging from the soil. As excavation continued, the full profile of the head was revealed. Despite centuries underground and layers of hardened mortar, the craftsmanship of the hair and beard has survived in remarkable condition.
Although parts of the face remain covered by thick mortar, initial studies suggest the piece dates back to around the 2nd century CE. Experts believe it may depict a Roman god such as Jupiter or Serapis, or possibly a revered philosopher. While the figure's exact identity remains uncertain, its reuse within a Christian structure offers valuable insight into the cultural and religious transitions that characterised Late Antique Rome, as pagan traditions gradually gave way to Christianity between the 4th and 6th centuries CE.
Photo Credit: Parco Archeologico dell’Appia Antica / CC BY-ND 3.0
The statue has since been transferred to Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its commitment to preserving cultural treasures. There, the piece is being restored under the care of the Istituto Centrale per il Restauro (ICR). Students from the Scuola di Alta Formazione per il Restauro are also involved, assisting with detailed documentation, technical analyses, and diagnostic studies.
The restoration team aims not only to return the sculpture to its former glory but also to uncover more about its original purpose and historical background. Experts are investigating whether the head once formed part of a monumental statue or served a religious role before finding its way into the basilica’s foundations. As restoration progresses, the careful removal of the mortar may even reveal inscriptions or symbols that could shed further light on its origins.
The reuse of pagan statues within Christian buildings was fairly common in Late Antiquity, yet each example tells a unique story. This latest discovery adds another important piece to the puzzle of how Roman society evolved from its imperial, polytheistic past to embrace a Christian future.