Fifth-Century Mosaic Featuring Greek Inscription Unearthed in Şanlıurfa, Turkey

Excavations conducted at the ancient mound situated in the Balıklıgöl district of Şanlıurfa have yielded a remarkable discovery: a mosaic dating back approximately 1500 years, featuring a clear Greek inscription. This stunning artifact is meticulously crafted from minute tesserae in hues of black, red, and white. The intricate design incorporates detailed depictions of local flora and fauna, alongside precise geometric motifs. This find powerfully underscores the enduring legacy of human civilization across millennia, offering tangible evidence of life in the region during the late antique period.

Rendered in Byzantine script, the preserved Greek text includes the personal name “Anakas” and functions as a supplication for divine protection for him and his kin. Leading the archaeological team, Gökhan Kozmbe of Batman University has precisely dated the mosaic's creation to the late 5th century, specifically placing it between 460 and 495 AD. Researchers hypothesize that the mosaic once graced a significant public edifice, likely a church or a martyrium, given the region's historical role as a vibrant nexus of diverse faiths and traditions.

Further analysis of the text reveals details about the community's social structure, naming several influential individuals of the era: Priest Ilya, Deacon Ravulos, and a figure identified as Kyros. This provides valuable insight into the local ecclesiastical hierarchy during the Byzantine period. Although Şanlıurfa was initially established as a Hellenistic outpost by the Seleucids, the continued use of Greek script in this mosaic highlights the enduring cultural currents present in the area, often referred to locally as the “City of Prophets.” Furthermore, cyclical depictions representing the four classical elements were uncovered nearby. According to Kozmbe, these elements may have been strategically placed at the building's corners, offering crucial clues about the ritual practices prevalent in that era.

Unfortunately, the ancient structure sustained considerable damage during the devastating earthquake that struck on February 6, 2023. This damage has amplified the urgency of conservation efforts, as noted by City Mayor Hasan Silindak, who emphasized that these findings solidify Şanlıurfa's profound historical importance. A dedicated restoration project commenced in 2024, with the ambitious goal of concluding all necessary conservation work by the close of 2026. Following restoration, the site is slated for public access. Additionally, archaeologists have already located a minimum of three burial sites within the excavation area, believed to belong to the ministers who served the structure. These discoveries collectively offer a unique window into how past generations sought to establish stability and harmony, securing a sense of order for both themselves and their descendants.