A 2,200-year-old bronze statue, accidentally pulled up in a fishing net off Marmaris in 2020, is now on public display at Marmaris Castle and Archaeology Museum. Known as “The Woman from the Sea”, this Roman-era artefact is one of the most exciting archaeological finds in southwestern Türkiye in recent years, and a must-see for anyone interested in history.
How the Bronze Statue Was Found in Marmaris
On 17 November 2020, the fishing trawler Azimler was working in Hisarönü Gulf, when the crew hauled up something unexpected: an ancient hollow bronze figure of a woman, missing its head and arms.
The fishermen reported the find to the South Aegean Coast Guard Command straight away, and the statue was transferred to Marmaris Museum the same day. What began as an unusual catch turned out to be a significant archaeological discovery.
Restoration: Bringing the Ancient Statue Back to Life
After centuries underwater, the bronze needed urgent care. Specialists first removed the accumulated salt and stabilised the surface. The statue was then sent to the Izmir Regional Laboratory of Restoration and Conservation, where experts carried out detailed conservation work over several years. Once restored, it returned to Marmaris, ready to join the town’s cultural heritage collection.
Hellenistic Style, Roman Era: What the Statue Shows
The statue has artistic features typical of the Hellenistic period (2nd century BC), but experts date it to the Roman era. The woman wears two classic garments of the ancient world:
Chiton: a light tunic, traditionally worn by Greek women.
Himation: a cloak draped over the body, common in both Hellenistic and Roman dress.
These details give a rare look at ancient Mediterranean fashion and artistic influence.
“The Woman from the Sea” Exhibition at Marmaris Castle Museum
On 4 July 2025, the statue was shown to the public for the first time in an exhibition called The Woman from the Sea, held at Marmaris Museum inside the historic Marmaris Castle.
The exhibition is part of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism’s nationwide project “102 Exhibitions in 102 Years: A Journey into Anatolia’s Cultural Heritage in the Light of the Republic”, which marks the 102nd anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye. Marmaris Museum designed the new gallery with support from the Marmaris Chamber of Commerce. Alongside the statue, visitors can see other archaeological finds from excavations in the surrounding region.
Visiting Marmaris Castle and Archaeology Museum
Beyond its beaches, turquoise bays and lively holiday atmosphere, Marmaris has a history stretching back thousands of years. The museum sits inside the castle above the old town and the marina, so it combines easily with a walk through the Old Town and Bazaar.
Visitor information: click here for the opening hours, ticket price, address, and location links
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “The Woman from the Sea”?
A 2,200-year-old hollow bronze statue of a woman, found in a fishing net in Hisarönü Gulf, Marmaris, in 2020.
Where can I see the bronze statue?
At Marmaris Castle and Archaeology Museum, inside Marmaris Castle.
When was it discovered?
On 17 November 2020, by the crew of the trawler Azimler.
Is the statue Greek or Roman?
It shows Hellenistic artistic characteristics, but experts date it to the Roman era.
When did the exhibition open?
On 4 July 2025.
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