Rare Hercules Statue Unearthed in Montaione, Italy

Archaeologists in Montaione, Italy, have discovered a rare, small marble statue of the Greek demigod Hercules (Herakles). The 1,700-year-old statue, approximately 1.64 feet (50 centimeters) tall, was found in three fragments. Despite lacking a head, the statue depicts Hercules with his signature club and lion's skin. Notably, the statue features a bull's head at Hercules' feet, representing his seventh labor: capturing the Cretan bull. This depiction is uncommon in Hercules representations, making the find particularly significant.

The statue, named Hercules of Valdelsa, will be displayed at the University of Florence before finding a permanent home at the Civic Museum of Montaione. Excavations in Montaione, ongoing since 2012, have yielded numerous artifacts, including ceramic pieces, a thermal bath annex, and mosaics, thanks to the Valdelsa Fiorentina Cultural Association, the University of Florence's SAGAS Department, and students from various institutions.