Amphipolis: "Royal" Tomb Not Ruled Out - Discovery of Mosaic Only Increases Optimism

The impressive mosaic depicting the Abduction of Persephone by Pluto that was unearthed in Amphipolis earlier has fascinated people from all walks of life because of its unique detail and colors. According to a statement by Greece's Ministry of Culture, the mosaic in Amphipolis appears to have been inspired by a similar wall painting that was found in Vergina.

While the identity of the person for whom the tomb was constructed still remains a mystery, the archaeological team involved in the excavation works believe that it probably belongs to an important figure. The head of the archaeological dig, Katerina Peristeri, told journalists that the person entombed was “without a doubt extremely important”.

When further pressed by journalists, Peristeri noted that it was too early to determine whether the tomb belongs to a member of the royal Macedonian family, but she did point out that the tomb’s significance has now increased because of this latest discovery.

Asked about the circular gap in the middle of the mosaic work of art, Peristeri said that the damage does not appear to have been caused naturally, without further elaborating.

Meanwhile, Lina Mendoni, (the general secretary of the Ministry of Culture) reassured journalists that all the findings unearthed from the Amphipolis tomb would remain in the area. She wanted to dispel rumors that they were to be moved to other museums. Mendoni said that the Ministry’s policy is to return artifacts to the area where they were discovered, (including those that were uncovered from older digs).