The top four Greek archaeological discoveries of 2023

2023 has been another year full of great archaeological discoveries throughout many parts of Greece.

As we prepare to enter 2024, The Greek Herald has decided to look back at the top four archaeological finds of the year.

4. Submerged Greek Temple of Aphrodite found off Egypt’s coast

Archaeologists, led by Egyptian and French teams, discovered a temple dedicated to Aphrodite off the coast of Egypt, revealing evidence of temples and a trove of artefacts. The findings include silver ritual instruments, gold jewellery, bronze objects, and Greek weaponry, showcasing a rich historical tapestry.

3. Archaeologists find shipwreck linked to 1821 Greek Revolution in Halkidiki

According to archaeological discoveries from earlier this year, a shipwreck found on the coast of Fourka in Halkidiki, Greece was believed to be associated with the 1821 Greek Revolution. Divers found the wreck last summer, which featured two cannons and a 1.5-meter-long rifle on its wooden hull.

Researchers presented their findings at the annual archaeological meeting for the 2022 excavations in Macedonia and Thrace, showcasing their potential role in the uprising of Halkidiki during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

2. New discovery proves Greek presence in Jerusalem’s history

A discovery was made in the City of David earlier this year which provided tangible evidence of the Greek presence in Jerusalem’s history. In the discovery, 16 pieces of ceramic roof tiles were discovered during excavations by the Israel Antiquities Authority and Tel Aviv University. They dated back to the time of Greek Seleucid King Antiochus IV Epiphanes.

1. New discovery moves dawn of Greek archaeology back by a quarter million years

In June this year, in the southern part of Greece, an ancient archaeological site dating back 700,000 years was uncovered in a coal mine rich with artifacts. Tools were found from the Lower Palaeolithic period, as well as the remains of extinct species. The discovery pushes back the beginning of Greek archaeology by a quarter of a million years.