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The head (if not the body) of a Greek god is found in Athens

Ancient bust of the Greek god Hermes that was found during sewage work in central Athens.
A bust of the Greek god Hermes dating to about 300 B.C. was found during sewage work in central Athens.
(Greek Culture Ministry)
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An ancient bust of the Greek god Hermes was discovered in good condition in central Athens during sewage work, authorities said Sunday.

The Greek Culture Ministry said that the head, one of many that served as street markers in ancient Athens, was found Friday and appears to be from around 300 B.C. It depicts Hermes at “a mature age,” the ministry said, in contrast to his usual depictions as a youthful god.

The head is in the style of famed Greek sculptor Alcamenes, who flourished in the second half of the fifth century B.C., the ministry said.

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After serving as a street marker, the head, at some point, had been built into the wall of a drainage duct, the ministry said.

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