In June 2025, archaeologists discovered new mosaics and inscriptions in the early Christian Church No. 1 of the 5th century in the ancient city of Olympos, located in the Kumluca district of Antalya province. These findings were made as part of ongoing excavations that have been conducted for the past four years with the support of the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
The project leader, Associate Professor Gökçen Kurtuluş Öztaşkın from Pamukkale University, noted that Olympos continues to surprise archaeologists with its rich mosaic heritage. Floors with geometric and plant patterns, as well as inscriptions with the names of donors, were found in the main building of Church No. 1 and its annexes.
Besides the church complex, archaeologists discovered a 5th-century residential building built on the site of a Roman necropolis. After a fire in the 6th century, the structure was rebuilt, and its original layout was largely preserved. Among the finds is a pithos, a large ceramic vessel, now on display at the Antalya Archaeological Museum.
Scientists also suggest that the remains of a monumental temple may be located in the city center. Architectural features, such as protruding stone blocks and fine wall construction, indicate the religious purpose of the building. Excavations in this area are expected to begin in the coming days.
On the agenda for 2025 are works in the western necropolis, the episcopal palace, Church No. 3, and a possible temple structure. Completion of the excavations in the northern part of the city is expected within two years, after which teams will focus on the southern part of Olympos.