In a striking juxtaposition of ancient history and contemporary conservation efforts, the "Binders of Phaleron" continue to unravel their secrets under the watchful eyes of modern archaeology. Discovered in 2016 in Athens during excavations at the Esplanade of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, these 78 chained human skeletons have become a focal point of intrigue and scientific inquiry, shedding light on a turbulent period in ancient Greek history.
Unearthing the Past
The skeletons, dating back to the latter half of the 7th century BC, present a macabre tableau. Men executed for reasons yet unknown; their remains were interred in chains, grouped into three distinct clusters. The first group portrays a haunting scene—skeletons still bound by their shackles. With remains either tied by hands or shackled at the wrists, the second and third clusters tell a slightly different story. These bindings speak volumes, hinting at a society deeply engaged in punitive practices or perhaps ritualistic activities.
Retention of slopes using polyurethane foam
The Conservation Challenge
The task of preserving these ancient remains has been nothing short of herculean. Under the supervision of the Ephorate of Antiquities of Piraeus and Islands and observed by the Greek Minister of Culture, Lina Mendoni, the conservation work has been methodical and meticulous. The proximity of the site to the water table, coupled with fluctuating humidity levels and the presence of salts, posed significant risks to the integrity of the osteological material. This necessitated the temporary relocation of the finds in early 2023, using a combination of iron rails and crane vehicles—a delicate operation that underscores the complexities involved in archaeological conservation.
Technological Integration in Archaeological Preservation
The relocated skeletons are now housed in a specially designed temporary enclosure. This setup includes state-of-the-art humidification, dehumidification, and air-conditioning systems closely monitored to ensure optimal environmental conditions. Electronic recorders continuously track these conditions, highlighting the role of modern technology in preserving our ancient past. The preventive and life-saving maintenance operations conducted on the skeletal material are testament to the painstaking efforts invested in safeguarding these historical treasures.
Clusters 1 and 2 have been moved to their temporary location on a concrete slab underpass
Future Plans: Bridging the Past and Present
The Recovery Fund is funding the final stage of this enormous project, which entails the construction of a museum shell with a budget of about 6.5 million euros. This structure, blending seamlessly into the Esplanade, will provide a permanent home for the "Binders of Faliro." The design cleverly balances the aesthetic integration of the museum with the functionality required for the preservation and display of the skeletons. The planned underground space will protect the skeletal material, while the ground floor will cater to visitors, complete with surveillance and operational facilities.
Supporting the collapsing bones with a mixture of silica sand and sand from the excavation site
A Window into Ancient Societies
The ongoing work on the "Binders of Faliro" is not just a tale of archaeological discovery and conservation; it's a narrative that spans millennia. It connects us, through the lens of modern scientific techniques and historical inquiry, to a past that is both mysterious and revealing. This project is a testament to the enduring curiosity of humanity, our desire to understand our history, and our commitment to preserving it for future generations. As this endeavor continues, it serves as a powerful reminder of how the past, though silent in its physical form, can speak volumes through the careful study and preservation of its remnants.
