Amphipolis Dig Fully Uncovers The Pedestals Of The Caryatids

A drawing reconstruction of the burial mound at Kasta hill in Amphipolis, Greece, released by the Greek Culture Ministry.

The 28th Ephorate of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities continues the excavation of the burial mound at Kasta hill in Amphipolis, Greece, by clearing the space in the second antechamber of the tomb.

Photo 1

According to an announcement by the Greek Culture Ministry, the last two blocks of the sealing wall were recently removed, uncovering the marble pedestals to their full extent (photo 1), on which the Caryatids are standing. The pedestals are 1.40 m high and 1.36 m wide, thus the statues along with their bases reach a total height of 3.67 m (photo 2).

Photo 2

The pedestals of the statues are a continuation of the wall behind them and share the same marble-clad decoration. Moreover, the floor in this area is elevated by 7 cm, while traces of blue color are discerned on its surface (photo 3).

Photo 3

Meanwhile, the removal of the soil filling up the space behind the Caryatids revealed another 1.5 m of the wall, along with a large part of the door opening that leads to the third chamber of the tomb. The supporting works continue, preparing the ground for the excavators to enter.