Ancient Greek mosaics dating back to the 2nd-century BC, discovered in Zeugma, Turkey, showcase remarkable artistry and offer a glimpse into the cultural richness of the Eastern Roman Empire.
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Archaeologists, under the guidance of Professor Kutalmış Görkay from the University of Ankara, have unearthed three stunning ancient Greek mosaics in Zeugma, near the border between Turkey and Syria. Dating back to the 2nd century B.C., these mosaics stand as vivid testaments to the region’s artistic refinement and cultural vitality during antiquity.
Zeugma, founded by Seleucus I Nicatore in the 3rd century BC, was strategically located near the Euphrates River, making it a vital center for trade and cultural exchange. Under Roman rule, it flourishes as one of the most significant shopping centers of the Eastern Roman Empire, facilitating the circulation of goods, ideas and art.
The mosaics discovered depict intricate patterns, mythological scenes, and eventually elements of everyday life, illustrating the fusion between Greek and Roman artistic traditions. These masterpieces offer invaluable insights into the aesthetic preferences, social customs, and economic prosperity of the era.
Zeugma’s archaeological significance has grown in recent decades, particularly with the salvage excavations aimed at preserving its treasures from the waters of the Birecik Dam. Today, these mosaics not only enrich our understanding of the past but also highlight the region’s enduring historical and cultural heritage.
Mosaic discovered in ancient Greek city of Zeugma
Mosaic discovered in the ancient Greek city of Zeugma (present-day Turkey). The object is located in the Zeugma Mosaic Museum in Gaziantep (southern Türkiye).
The mosaic shows nine muses, with Calliope in the middle. The Muses were goddesses of inspiration in art, science and literature. The mosaics date back to the 2nd century BCE.
