Posted on 07/31/2005 4:18:37 PM PDT by gopwinsin04
A 1,700 year old carved marble head of Emperor Constatine has been found in a sewer in central Rome. Archaeologists found the 2ft head while cleaning an ancient drainage system in the Roman Forum.
Constantine, wwho reigned from 306 to 337 AD, is known for ending persecution of Christians and founding Constantinapole. Although most of his subjects remained pagans, he is credited with helping to establish Europe's Christian roots by proclaiming religious freedom.
Probably carved between 312 and 325 AD, in may have belonged to a statue of the emporer in full armor.
The heads unceremonious insertion in a blocked drain may have saved it from the plundering of the Forum after the fall of the Roman Empire in the 5th Century.
It is expected to go on display in Rome's museums after a brief period of restoration.
(Excerpt) Read more at news.bbc.co.uk ...
At least we know he didn't comit sewercide.
Ping
I wonder if the head came off when the Goths came strolling into Rome.
AAAAAARRRRGH!
Rim shot!
GGG Ping!
But still a crappy way to end up.
Looks to me that it is a head from a sarcophicus.
A monumental statue of Constantine wouldn't represent him with sunken eyes and closed eye lids.
It's a death mask which is much more significant.
Glad to see that you are back freeping. I hope you are recovering well.
So perhaps it was hidden in the drain to prevent looting by the Moslems?
You might be interested in this...
At least we know he didn't comit sewercide.
That would've been prefect if you hadn't misspelled 'commit'!
heh heh
They look like before and after shots.
"1700 years in a sewer! You wouldn't believe all the S#@& I've seen.
historic bttt
You're correct...I post here two days ago.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.