Marble capital

The marble capital located in the courtyard of Saint George Church in Old Heraklion is a notable example of Early Christian sculpture. Its style allows it to be dated to the late 4th and early 5th century AD. It was found in 1993 and constitutes a valuable testimony to the historical and architectural development of the area. It is carved from white marble of the Corinthian order, specifically the variant of composite two-zone capitals. Its lower zone is decorated with eight reed leaves, while its abacus is square with an undulating edge, characteristic of the period. The capital is displayed in an inverted position on a concave-convex marble base, which dates to the same period and is incorporated into the stylobate plinth. The acanthus leaves reveal a confident use of the drill in the carving technique.

Location: The courtyard at St. George's church