Unprecedented Roman mosaic discovery sparks excitement among archaeologists in Türkiye

In its article, Euronews highlights that a remarkable discovery has been made in eastern Türkiye, where a largely intact mosaic from the late Roman period has been unearthed. 

A remarkable mosaic from the late Roman period, featuring rare scenes of hunting, including a depiction of the Anatolian leopard, has been discovered in eastern Türkiye. This mosaic, which is largely intact, may be the first of its kind to survive in its entirety in the country.

The mosaic, covering an area of 84 square meters, was uncovered in April 2023 by farmer Mehmet Emin Sualp while planting an orchard in the village of Salkaya. Experts believe it could be the largest of its kind ever found in Türkiye, as it depicts a variety of hunting scenes, some never seen before in this region.

According to Emre Çayır, the lead archaeologist overseeing the excavation at the state Archaeology and Ethnography Museum of Elazığ, this mosaic is the only one of its kind to have remained fully intact. Unlike other discovered mosaics in Türkiye, which often feature geometric patterns or mythological themes, this one portrays actual wildlife, such as the Anatolian leopard, once native to the region.

The mosaic offers a glimpse into ancient hunting practices, with scenes showing a lion chasing a mountain goat, a bear pursuing a stag, and greyhounds hunting wild boar. In a dramatic depiction, an Anatolian leopard attacks an ostrich. Interspersed among these dynamic scenes are calmer images of birds like pheasants, ducks, and geese, as well as blooming roses and pomegranate trees, providing a serene contrast to the hunting imagery.

“The lion and bear represent authority in Roman tradition, and the depiction of hunting dogs reminds us that humans are part of the food chain, [showing how] the craftsmen used metaphor to convey these ideas,” said Çayır.

Mehmet Emin Sualp stumbled upon the mosaic while digging holes for cherry saplings. Initially buried under just 50cm of loose soil, the mosaic had remained hidden for centuries—possibly since the late third century—beneath a settlement near Salkaya, about 500km east of Ankara. The discovery has generated considerable excitement among archaeologists, who believe the site may have been a prosperous settlement, potentially tied to the Roman Empire's frontier with ancient Persia.

Emre Çayır, the lead archaeologist, speculated that the mosaic could have adorned the residence of a Roman official, serving as “an expression of power.”

Despite enduring centuries of upheaval, the mosaic remained largely intact, partly due to the protection of a collapsed wooden roof. Other structures uncovered at the site include a basalt road, an irrigation channel, and possibly a winemaking facility. Coins found at the location suggest it was in use from the late Roman to early Byzantine period.

A team of conservators is working to protect the mosaic, which is now covered to shield it from winter conditions. Turkish authorities have not yet decided whether to relocate the mosaic to a museum or preserve it at its current location. According to provincial governor Numan Hatipoğlu, this decision will depend on further findings at the site.

This discovery marks a thrilling moment for Turkey’s archaeological community, providing an unparalleled glimpse into the culture and art of a lost civilization. As more artifacts are uncovered, the ancient settlement may offer deeper insights into the daily life and power structures of the Roman era in the region.

By Naila Huseynova