Roman sarcophagus of Hercules returns home to Turkey

ANTALYA

The Roman sarcophagus of Hercules, which was smuggled abroad some 50 years ago, has finally been returned to Turkey from Switzerland. 

The sarcophagus, which was found during illegal excavations in the ancient city of Perge in the southern province of Antalya, was delivered to Culture and Tourism Ministry officials in Geneva on Sept. 13. 

The sarcophagus, which had been on display at the University of Geneva, was packed on Sept. 6 and transferred to the customs department.  

After the completion of cargo transactions by the Turkish Consulate General in Geneva, the sarcophagus was transferred to Zurich and then on to Istanbul Atatürk Airport under the sponsorship of Turkish Airlines on Sept. 12. 

The sarcophagus, which depicts the 12 labors of Hercules, will be put on display at the Antalya Museum along with the statue of Weary Herakles, which was repatriated to Turkey by the U.S. after 30 years abroad.