Archaeologists have unearthed a small white marble statue of Hercules from ancient Rome in Montaione, a municipality in the province of Florence, Italy. The statue, estimated to date back to the 3rd or 4th century, was found in three fragments during an excavation on private land.
Standing over 50 centimeters tall and missing its head, the statue depicts Hercules, a central figure in Greek and Roman mythology. He is shown resting, holding a club, and draped in lion’s skin – symbols of his legendary strength.
According to experts from Adnkronos, the head of a bull lies at his feet, a reference to his seventh labor, the capture of the Cretan bull.
Rare representation of Hercules
Archaeologists believe the statue is a rare find due to its uncommon depiction of Hercules alongside a bull. “It’s a finding that excites us and makes us understand how archaeology always reserves new things for us: objects, information, and news,” said Antonella Ranaldi, superintendent of archaeology, fine arts, and landscape for Florence.
“It is truly a discovery because the statuette is almost complete; it is three fitting pieces. It represents a Hercules, and there is the presence of a bull at his feet, and this is something not very frequent in representations of Hercules.”
The statue has been named Hercules of Valdelsa and is undergoing a detailed examination by specialists. Their research aligns with its estimated dating to the mid-to-late imperial period, a time of significant architectural and artistic development in the region.
Public unveiling at archaeology and tourism event
The first public presentation of the statue is scheduled for tourismA – Salone dell’Archeologia e Turismo Culturale, an archaeology and cultural tourism event in Florence from Feb. 21 to 23, 2025.
Following the exhibition, it will be temporarily displayed at the University of Florence before finding a permanent home at the Civic Museum of Montaione, which houses other archaeological finds from the region.
Excavation efforts and ongoing research
The discovery was made by archaeologists from the Valdelsa Fiorentina Cultural Association and the University of Florence’s SAGAS Department, assisted by students from a summer school program. International students from the Irlab Institute also took part in the excavation.
Archaeological studies in Montaione have been ongoing since 2012, supported by the Municipality of Montaione.
Excavations have uncovered ceramic artifacts and well-preserved structures, including a thermal bath annex decorated with marble and intricate floor and wall mosaics, reflecting the wealth of the period.
The Hercules statue adds to a growing collection of artifacts that provide insights into the region’s Roman past. Experts continue to analyze the site, hoping to uncover more details about the statue’s original placement and its connection to the surrounding structures.
The restoration process is expected to preserve the statue’s fine details, allowing the public to view an important piece of Roman artistic heritage in its near-complete form.