1,700-Year-Old Roman Mosaic Unearthed in Eastern Turkey!

In an astonishing archaeological find, a pristine 84-square-metre Roman mosaic has been uncovered near the village of Salkaya in Elazığ Province, eastern Turkey. This extraordinary piece was discovered in April 2023 by a local farmer, Mehmet Emin Sualp, while he was planting cherry saplings. The mosaic, buried a mere 50 centimetres beneath the surface since Roman times, is thought to date back to the Late Roman period and is considered the largest and best-preserved mosaic found in Turkey to date.

A Glimpse into Roman Life through Art

The mosaic offers a vivid depiction of hunting scenes, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the region during Roman times. Among the detailed imagery, the rare Anatolian leopard is shown capturing an ostrich, while other dynamic scenes portray a lion chasing a mountain goat, a bear pursuing a stag, and greyhounds surrounding a wild boar. In contrast, tranquil depictions of pheasants, ducks, and geese nestled among blooming roses and pomegranate trees offer a serene balance to the mosaic’s dramatic narrative.

Emre Çayır, the lead archaeologist from the Elazığ Archaeology and Ethnography Museum, described the mosaic as a “one-of-a-kind masterpiece.” He noted its uniqueness, as it is the first in Turkey to remain intact while also representing the region’s native fauna. Unlike the geometric and mythological designs typical of other Roman mosaics in the country, this piece captures the natural world with remarkable detail and symbolism.

Photo Credit: Following Hadrian, CC BY-SA 2.0

Symbolism and Significance

According to Çayır, the mosaic’s imagery carries profound symbolic meaning rooted in Roman tradition. Animals such as lions and bears represented authority, while the hunting dogs symbolised humanity’s position within the food chain. The artisans used these metaphors to convey the eternal cycle of nature, showcasing their understanding of the environment and cultural values.

The Context of the Mosaic

Archaeologists believe the mosaic once adorned the home of a wealthy Roman official, possibly in a reception hall or dining room. Its intricate design and scale would have been a clear demonstration of the owner’s wealth and influence. The settlement, thought to date back to the late 3rd century, may have been a bustling farming community or a strategically important outpost near the frontier with the Sasanian Empire. Additional finds at the site, such as a basalt road, an irrigation channel, and a possible winemaking facility, suggest it was a thriving hub of activity. Coins discovered in the area indicate that the settlement persisted into the early Byzantine period.

Interestingly, the mosaic’s survival through the centuries can be attributed to a wooden roof that collapsed over it, shielding it from damage and the elements.

Protecting a Treasure for Future Generations

Efforts are now underway to safeguard this remarkable artefact. For the time being, the mosaic remains covered to protect it from winter weather. Provincial governor Numan Hatipoğlu stated that authorities are debating whether to relocate it to a museum or preserve it in situ by constructing a protective structure. The decision will largely depend on the outcome of ongoing excavations, which are expected to uncover additional artefacts that could offer further insights into Roman life in the region.

This extraordinary discovery serves as a captivating window into the past, offering a tangible connection to the daily lives and cultural expressions of the Roman Empire’s inhabitants in this corner of the ancient world. As further exploration continues, we can look forward to uncovering even more secrets hidden beneath the soil.