A unique marble artifact was found underwater two thousand years later.

Experts have begun restoration work

Archaeologists have discovered a marble frieze depicting a mighty prancing horse 2 thousand years after the disappearance of the Temple of Zeus in ancient Akragas in Sicily. This remarkable discovery sheds light on the artistic skill and cultural significance of the unfinished building.

Photo: Parco archeologico della Valle dei Templi

A testament to ambition, the Temple of Zeus, located in the Valley of the Temples, was intended to be a colossal masterpiece of Doric art. However, the frieze was discovered on the seabed off the coast of the Sicilian resort town of San Leone, two miles south of the famous Valley. The temple of Zeus itself was erected by the tyrant Theron, who ruled the Greek colony of Akragas (Agrigento in modern world) and large parts of Sicily from 488 to 473 BC. The temple was built in honor of Theron's victory at the Battle of Himera in 480 BC.

Measuring a staggering 112 meters long and 56 meters wide, it was to be one of the largest temples ever built. However, it was left unfinished due to war and natural disasters.

The image of a horse on the relief is not only beautiful, but also symbolic. Rampant horse — it is an iconographic image invariably associated with Zeus. Let us recall that, according to myth, the chariot of the ancient Greek supreme god was harnessed to four horses, in which the four winds turned. That is why Zeus could move at such speed around the world.

Non-profit underwater research group BCsicilia discovered a 2-meter frieze decorated with a magnificent prancing horse. An animal carved from Proconnese marble symbolizes power and strength — themes common in ancient Greek art.

In addition to its historical significance, the frieze exhibits a unique property of preservation in salt water. Years at sea have taken their toll and careful restoration work is currently underway. This delicate task aims to restore a priceless piece of history for future generations.

«Frieze of the Temple of Zeus — it's more than just stone carving. It is a window into a bygone era, an example of artistic excellence and a reminder of the enduring power of history. As the restoration progresses, this newly discovered treasure promises to reveal even more secrets and inspire awe of the civilizations that left their mark on the world,” — said a representative of BCsicilia.