Uncovered sarcophagus offers an ancient perspective on death
Archaeologists in Israel unearthed a 1,700-year-old marble sarcophagus depicting the Greek gods Hercules and Dionysus in a drinking contest near Caesarea.
The sarcophagus, dating from the second or third century AD, suggests the area outside Caesarea was densely populated during the Roman period.
The artefact portrays animals, trees, Hercules, and Dionysus, with Hercules shown unable to stand, indicating Dionysus won the drinking contest.
Experts are restoring the sarcophagus, which provides a rare regional perspective on death, symbolising it as a transition to a new life rather than an end.
Israel Antiquities Authority director Eli Escusido called the find "thought-provoking," highlighting its insights into Roman-era beliefs and daily life.
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