In a remarkable twist of fate, a mysterious 1,800-year-old Roman statue has emerged from the depths of history, unearthed during routine car park construction work. Now proudly displayed within the grandeur of the Hell Staircase at Burghley House, this captivating discovery has captured the imagination of archaeologists and visitors alike.
The marble head of a Roman lady was first uncovered by Greg Crawley, a diligent digger driver, during spring 2023. Just two weeks later, another astonishing find emerged from the earth—a marble bust, adding to the intrigue of this ancient puzzle.
Expert analysis has dated the sculpture to the First or Second Century, with an iron dowel indicating later modifications, likely done in the late 18th Century by Italian dealers to enhance its appeal to aristocratic travelers on the Grand Tour.
The origins of the statue's burial in the park remain shrouded in mystery, with theories ranging from a failed burglary to simple abandonment. It's unclear how long the statue lay concealed beneath the soil before its chance discovery as the new car park neared completion.
Greg Crawley, the unsuspecting hero of this archaeological saga, recalls the moment of revelation with awe: “I had a real shock as the digger bucket rolled over what I thought was a big stone to reveal a face. When I picked it up, I realized it was the head of a statue. I couldn't believe it when they told me it was a Roman marble statue. It was an amazing feeling to have found something so old and special – definitely my best ever discovery.”
Both the head and bust underwent meticulous cleaning and restoration by professional conservators before being reunited as intended. The find was promptly reported to the British Museum, adding to its extensive database of archaeological discoveries.
As Burghley House prepares to open its doors for the 2024 season, visitors will have the opportunity to marvel at this extraordinary artifact, displayed alongside other sculptures acquired by the ninth Earl during his travels to Italy in the 1760s.
This serendipitous discovery serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring allure of history and the profound connections that link us to our ancient past. As the statue takes its place among the treasures of Burghley House, it invites us to ponder the mysteries of time and the stories etched in stone by those who came before us.
Source: Burghley House