A scandal has erupted in Bulgaria over a discovered historical relic, as the goddess's head was allegedly concealed from researchers (photos, videos).

Tyche is more commonly known in Roman mythology as Fortuna.

https://news.telegraf.com.ua/nauka/2024-12-03/5888786-navkolo-znaydenoi-istorichnoi-relikvii-v-bolgarii-rozgorivsya-skandal-golovu-bogini-nachebto-prikhovuvali-vid-vchenikh-foto-video2024-12-04 07:41:22

Finding well-preserved historical artifacts is an extraordinary achievement for an archaeologist. In Plovdiv, Bulgaria, a marble head of the ancient Greek goddess Tyche was discovered in the ancient city of Philippopolis. It was uncovered during excavations at the Episcopal Basilica.

Local scholars are already calling the find phenomenal. The head dates from the late 1st to the mid-3rd century AD and showcases exquisite Hellenistic craftsmanship. Tyche's head is adorned with a distinctive crown, the corona muralis, which mimics the city walls with towers. This signifies that Tyche was the protector of the city of Philippopolis. It is believed that the artifact was part of a statue approximately 2.5 meters tall, based on the proportions of the head.

Archaeologists suggest that the statue may have belonged to a sanctuary that existed at the site of the Christian basilica in ancient times. They also consider the location where the marble head was found—near the basilica's altar. It is thought that it may not have simply been used as building material, but rather placed there symbolically.

Before displaying the artifact, there are plans to clean and restore it. The team also aims to lift the basilica's mosaic to study the ancient sanctuary below, where other statues may be located.

The excavation process has encountered controversy. Archaeologist Lyubomir Merjdanov claims that the head was previously found but concealed because the excavations were not regulated. Elena Kantarova, director of the municipal institute "Ancient Plovdiv," responsible for the Episcopal Basilica, refutes these accusations, stating that the existence of the marble artifact at this site has been known since 2021, as previously reported.

Note: Tyche, the ancient Greek goddess of fortune and chance, was revered as a powerful deity that equally influences the lives of mortals and gods. Tyche is often depicted alongside symbols of city protection, such as the corona muralis, representing the wealth and prosperity of the city. Later the Romans named her Fortuna.

Previously, "Telegraph" reported on the discovery of a sunken ship from Vasco da Gama's last expedition. It had lain at the bottom for centuries.