Greece hopeful that newly discoved tomb will boost economy

Speculation mounts as archaeologists continue excavation of a newly discovered ancient tomb in northern Greece: Who is buried within?

by John Tyburski

Copyright © Daily Digest News, KPR Media, LLC. All rights reserved.

First published at Daily Digest News on October 13, 2014

Greece is often referred to as the “cradle of civilization” so it follows that Greek leaders are hopeful of an economic boost from a newly discovered ancient tomb. They could sure use something to shore up the struggling nation’s economy, and a bump in tourism could be start.

The latest news of the discovery, a floor mosaic depicting a man driving a horse-drawn chariot led by the Greek messenger god Hermes comes as archaeologists continue to excavate the site, while the government continues to update the effort with daily news releases designed to attract visitors. The tomb, found at Amphipolis in the nation’s northern region, is the largest of its kind and just the latest in a series of remarkable discoveries.

The mosaic consists of tiny white, black, blue, red, and yellow pebbles and measures 10 feet by 15 feet. Also found in the tomb are two impressive caryatids, sculpted female figures, each with an arm outstretched as if to keep visitors from entering the main chamber. These caryatids are similar to the ones found at the Acropolis in Athens.

Discoveries continue to indicate the tomb is important as a possible burial site of a dignitary. Dating places it at the fourth century BC, around the time of Alexander the Great. Historic accounts place Alexander’s time elsewhere, but his actual tomb has not yet been located. Some speculate that this one could be that of Roxane, Alexander’s wife. Others say it may be his mother Olympias’s tomb. Betting has begun on which of these and other ancient figures are buried within.

Some commentators insist that the sheer opulence of the tomb indicate that only Alexander himself can be buried there. Recently, a team of Greek experts confirmed that bones found in a royal tomb nearby at Vergina are those of Alexander’s father, Macedonian King Philip II.

Hundreds of tourists and local day-trippers have visited Amphipolis since it the tomb was first discovered in August. Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras has also stopped by to mark the discovery as “very important.”