Larger-than-life statue of Herakles discovered in Philippi

Road works in Philippi have revealed a larger-than-life statue of young Herakles. 

Generally, the god is represented at a more mature age but can be recognized by his most common attributes: a club, and a lion skin. 

The well-preserved statue of Herakles has been dated to the 2^nd century AD and was reused to decorate a later building from the 8^th or 9^th century, probably a fountain. 

It is rather unlikely that Herakles would still be adored this late in Byzantine times. His statue must have caught the eye because of its beauty.

[Picture from Archaeology]