At the archaeological site of Frangissa, in central Cyprus, an international team of researchers found more than 20 statue bases belonging to the Sanctuary of Apollo. The site, known since 1885, is revealing secrets that had remained hidden for over a century.
During the early excavations of the 19th century, numerous bases of votive statues were unearthed, but they were later covered again with soil fill. Now, new work has allowed access to these pieces that remain in situ, that is, in their original place within the sanctuary.
Archaeologists Matthias Recke from the University of Frankfurt and Philipp Kobusch from the University of Rostock are leading the research. They highlighted that the bases are grouped together and retain part of their ancient arrangement, providing a unique opportunity to better understand the organization of the sacred space.
Some of these bases still have limestone and terracotta feet attached, details that enrich the information about the techniques and materials used in antiquity.
New data on the remodeling of the sanctuary
The researchers also discovered that these bases were intentionally covered with a leveling layer around the year 480 BC. This finding provides concrete evidence of the modifications the sanctuary underwent at different times.
The team will continue analyzing the remains to reconstruct more accurately how the evolution and remodeling of the site occurred over time. This is a meticulous job that combines modern technology with detailed study of the terrain.
