Archaeologists have uncovered a remarkably preserved 1,500-year-old mosaic in the ancient city of Smyrna, located in present-day İzmir, Türkiye. Smyrna is one of the seven churches of Asia Minor addressed by Jesus in the Book of Revelation.
The mosaic, dating between the fourth and sixth centuries A.D., was found during infrastructure work at the archaeological site. It measures approximately 16.4 by 8.2 feet and features intricate geometric and floral motifs.
Excavation director Akın Ersoy stated that the mosaic was initially discovered last year but was fully excavated this year. Traces of walls defining the space were also found. It is believed that a structure was built over the mosaic during the Ottoman period in the 19th century, with the new layout designed to avoid damaging the ancient artwork.
"We can say that the people of that period consciously protected it because there is very little damage," Ersoy said, noting that the space has been brought back to life after 15 centuries. "The space was brought back to life after 1,500 years."
A striking motif within the mosaic is a heart-shaped ivy leaf, created with red tesserae. Ersoy explained that while the heart is now commonly seen as a symbol of love, it predates this association and was intended to symbolize loyalty in ancient times, as ivy clinging to trees and walls represented steadfastness.
Archaeologists also found bags, cooking pots, and earthenware vessels from the late Ottoman Empire and early Turkish Republic periods. These finds suggest the area was reused approximately 1,500 years after the mosaic was initially laid.
The discovery in Smyrna is one of several recent archaeological finds in cities mentioned in the Book of Revelation, including a Roman council hall in Laodicea and ancient artifacts in Ephesus.