In 2024, archaeologists excavating the ancient city of Laodicea in Denizli, Türkiye, under the direction of Prof. Dr. Celal Şimşek, Head of the Archaeology Department at Pamukkale University, made a remarkable discovery within the stage building of the Western Theater.

A marble statue head of Hygieia—the goddess of health, cleanliness, and hygiene in Greek and Roman mythology—was unearthed, dating back approximately 2,100 years. Prof. Şimşek shared news of the find on social media with the caption: “Hygieia and the sun meet us in Laodicea after 2,100 years.”

Hygieia is traditionally portrayed holding a snake in one hand and a bowl in the other. This newly uncovered statue head stands as an important artifact, enriching our understanding of the cultural and artistic heritage of ancient Laodicea.