"Stunning Alexander-era statues found at ancient tomb, archaeologists say"
"Two stunning statues have been unearthed holding up the entrance to the biggest ancient tomb ever found in Greece.
The two female figures in long-sleeved tunics were found standing guard at the opening to the mysterious Alexander The Great-era tomb near Amphipolis in the Macedonia region of northern Greece, archaeologists said.
"The left arm of one and the right arm of the other are raised in a symbolic gesture to refuse entry to the tomb," a statement from the Culture Ministry said.
Speculation is mounting that the tomb, which dates from Alexander's lifetime (356-323BC), may be untouched, with its treasures intact.
Previous evacuations of Macedonian tombs have uncovered amazing troves of gold jewellery and sculptures.
A five-metre tall marble lion, currently standing on a nearby roadside, originally topped the 500 metre-long funeral mound, which is ringed by a marble wall.
Two headless stone Sphinx statues flanked the outer entrance, officials said, adding that "removing earth from the second entrance wall revealed the excellent marble caryatids".
Photographs released by the ministry show the sculptures - which hold up a lintel - uncovered to mid-bust, their curly hair falling onto their shoulders.
Archaeologists have been digging at the site, which Greek prime minister Antonis Samaras called a "very important find", since mid-August."
Thanks to ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) for this rare and great discovery
news. New World. Retrieved on the 8th of Sept 2014 at 7:07 am Australian time.
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