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Archaeological discovery in Greece reveals 2.000-year-old gold ring associated with Apollo, providing new evidence on symbolism and religious practices of the time
Archaeologists in Greece have discovered a monumental tomb that was used for centuries for burials before being transformed into a healing sanctuary. The structure, located in Chiliomodi, near Corinth in the Peloponnese, has revealed artifacts, including a gold ring with the figure of Apollo, that indicate this transition in function over time.
Discovery and structure of the tomb
A tomb was found in the fall of 2024 and its discovery was announced on March 10 by the Greek Ministry of Culture. The tomb has a T-shaped structure, with a burial chamber measuring 2,7 meters by 7,4 meters.
The entrance was sealed by a door-shaped slab, a common feature in tombs from the Hellenistic period (323 to 30 BC).
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Inside the burial chamber, archaeologists identified a large sarcophagus containing a female skeleton. In addition, there were five rectangular masonry boxes distributed along the walls, but these were looted at some point in history.
Reuse rates as a sanctuary
The tomb was used for burials for several centuries before becoming a healing sanctuary between 250 and 450 AD, in the late Roman period. Among the objects found, a gold ring caught the attention of researchers.
It features a semi-precious stone carved with the figure of Apollo, the god of healing and medicine. Next to him, a representation of a snake was found, a medical symbol recognized since ancient times.
In addition to the ring, archaeologists recovered coins, small gold leaves from a wreath, ceramic vases, iron and bronze items, perfume bottles and glass beads. These objects help to cement the importance of the site over time.
Healing shrine: votive offerings and cult indices
Outside the burial chamber, excavators found art indicating the monument's use as a healing shrine. Clay fingers and part of an arm were unearthed, suggesting votive offerings.
These anatomical representations were common in places dedicated to healing, where they certainly left objects that symbolized parts of the body seeking treatment or as thanks for a cure achieved.
The practice of offering votive sculptures of body parts was common in the ancient world. The act symbolized the hope of divine healing or gratitude for benefits received.
This finding reinforces the idea that the tomb not only housed the dead, but also became a space for religious devotion and the search for health.
Research still in progress
Excavation of the site has not yet been completed. According to the Greek Ministry of Culture, archaeologists are currently examining the original structure of the burial complex and its subsequent adaptation as a healing sanctuary. Future studies should investigate details about the renovations carried out over time.
In addition to the tomb, the Chiliomodi area contains remains from the late Roman period, including houses and a large oven. Research continues to deepen knowledge about the history of the area and its occupation over the centuries.
With information from Live Science.
