This paper deals with research to determine the state of conservation of the Riace bronze statues. After gammagraphic investigation, XPS and AES spectroscopy, the EMA technique and metallography were used to examine two very small cores. These techniques provided information on the surface chemical state. Elements such as chlorine and manganese, the consequence of seawater contact, have been determined, allowing distinction between old and new microfractures, and the type of corrosion present and the positive effect of the black patina on the conservation of the underlying metal.