An ornate Roman mosaic, believed to be 1,740 years old, has been uncovered at the ancient site of Aspendos in southern Turkey. The discovery, announced by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, is situated near the biblical city of Perga, a location visited by the Apostle Paul during his first missionary journey. This rare artwork provides significant scientific data on Roman-period Anatolian mosaic art and regional history.
The mosaic was found on Theater Street in Aspendos, a route connecting the city's acropolis to its theater. Pictures of the artifact reveal a depiction of the youthful river god Eurymedon, surrounded by geometric patterns and aquatic imagery. Officials stated that the god is shown holding and wearing reed leaves, leaning against an amphora from which water flows, symbolizing nature's abundance and the life-giving power of water.
Archaeologists estimate that the pagan mosaic once served as the floor of a pool constructed in the early 3rd century A.D. The mosaic floor covers approximately 20 by 25 feet, and it is thought to extend into unexcavated areas. Researchers believe the structure was subsequently divided into separate rooms following an earthquake in 262 A.D.
Depictions of the river god Eurymedon are considered exceptionally unusual in ancient mosaics, with only a limited number of known examples existing. The Turkish minister of culture and tourism, Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, highlighted the mosaic's great scientific importance and its significance due to the rarity of river god representations in mosaic art. He added that the discovery not only showcases the artistic richness of Aspendos but also contributes vital scientific information.
Aspendos is located just miles from Perga, a city mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles, where Paul traveled. Turkey has been a notable region for archaeological finds connected to the ancient Roman and early Christian worlds. Recent discoveries in the country include a 1,700-year-old Aramaic inscription at a temple and a Roman military hospital later converted into a Christian sanctuary in the ancient city of Kaunos.