Archaeologists from the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) have unearthed a remarkable Roman marble sarcophagus outside the walls of ancient Caesarea Maritima. The sarcophagus is decorated with a unique mythological scene: a drinking contest between Dionysus, the god of wine, and the Greek hero Heracles.
IAA archaeologists Nohar Shahar and Shani Amit described the discovery, stating that the tip of a marble object emerged during excavation. As more sand was removed, parts of the sarcophagus with figures of gods, animals, and trees began to appear. Each fragment was more impressive than the last.
The sarcophagus depicts Heracles reclining on a lion skin, holding a wine cup. This scene is unprecedented in the region. While depictions of Dionysus are common on 2nd and 3rd-century sarcophagi, this particular contest was previously only known from mosaics. The figures are believed to accompany the deceased on their final journey, with drinking and dancing symbolizing liberation.
The fragmented sarcophagus was transported to the IAA conservation laboratories for restoration. A team of conservators, including Solomon Gavriel, Ilya Armanovsky, and Gadmo Vajpo, along with architect Ido Rosental, worked on its restoration. Eli Escusido, director of the IAA, stated that the discovery reflects how life and death were perceived in the Roman world. The sarcophagus will be presented to the public as part of the country's commitment to making its past accessible.
The experts' work has allowed for the complete reconstruction of the sarcophagus scenes. At the center is Dionysus, surrounded by his entourage, including maenads, satyrs, Hermes, Pan, lions, and tigers. The scene is filled with celebration.
Regarding the drinking contest, Shahar humorously noted that Heracles's depiction, unable to stand, indicates Dionysus as the clear victor. The fully restored sarcophagus will be presented on June 12 at the annual conference of the Central Region of the IAA, held at the Eretz Israel Museum in Tel Aviv.