Important archaeological findings revealed in Despotiko

Statue referring to the Child of Cretius and a new four-room building among this year’s finds

26.08.2023

This year’s excavation on the island of Despotiko revealed important archaeological findings. Among other things, a headless male torso that dates back to the late 5th century BC and stylistically refers to the Child of Cretius, was revealed. It is a work of excellent quality made of Parian marble. Parts of archaic coffins were also found embedded as building material.

The systematic excavation at Mantra, on the islet of Despotiko, conducted since 2001 by the Ephorate of Antiquities of Cyclades under the direction of Yannos Kouragios, continued this year for seven weeks from 22 May to 14 July 2023, enriching the existing data on the topography of the site and its history from the Early Iron Age to Late Antiquity.

The excavation and restoration work were carried out with the support of the Paul and Alexandra Canellopoulos Foundation.

Press Release from the Ministry of Culture (available in Greek)