Taranto goddess, Ancient marble statue in Altes Museum, Germany
The Taranto goddess is a 5th-century BCE marble statue shown seated on a decorated throne with extended arms and wearing layered traditional Greek garments. At about 151 centimeters tall, the work displays intricate carving and fitted clothing secured with metal fasteners.
This work dates to the 5th century BCE and was discovered in 1911 near the southern Italian city of Taranto during excavation work. The find led to its transfer to Berlin, where it has been housed in the museum ever since.
The statue depicts an unidentified goddess whose identity remains a mystery to visitors today. Her seated position and elaborate clothing suggest she held great importance, yet scholars have never agreed on which deity she represents.
The statue is located in the Altes Museum where it can be examined closely to see the carving details and clothing elements. Visitors should take time to observe the finer features like the metal fasteners and the holes designed for decorative ornaments.
The work displays an elaborate hairstyle with braids divided down the middle and three long tresses behind each ear, features rarely seen in other similar works. This careful treatment of the hair stands out as one of the most striking elements of the entire piece.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
