An extraordinary portrait of the last emperor of Byzantium was unexpectedly found in Greece

from western Greece The last emperor of Byzantium was found in Aigiáleia Konstantinos XI Palaiologosin (1405–1453) portrait, says the Greek Ministry of Culture.

It’s a fresco. The work was revealed during the restoration of the old monastery.

Archeology Anastasia Koumousi says in the press release published by the ministry that the fresco dates to the middle of the 15th century. It is a rare work, as the portrait was made during the emperor’s lifetime. The picture is exceptionally realistic.

The work depicts a man with a crown. The man is wrapped in the emperor’s gold-decorated purple robe with a double-headed eagle embroidered on it. The man has a cross-shaped scepter in his hand. According to experts, the purpose of the emblems is to convey to viewers that the image depicts the emperor.

The man’s face exudes peace and gentleness, the release describes. The man in the fresco has a narrow face and individual features.

Konstantinos fell at the siege of Constantinople in 1453. He is said to have led troops against the Turkish besiegers himself.

Painter has probably lived in Mystras, according to the Ministry of Culture. Konstantinos also lived in the same city before his coronation as emperor.

At one time, the emperor’s brother generously donated money to Taxiarches monastery.