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3rd Century Roman Mosaic Found in Iznik Turkey

Archaeologists in the Iznik district of northwestern Türkiye have uncovered a remarkably well-preserved Roman mosaic dating to the 3rd century. The artwork was first detected in 2014 during sewer construction, which stopped immediately once the mosaic surface appeared. Authorities then expropriated the area to allow for formal excavations, which resumed this year under the Iznik Museum Directorate.
The newly revealed mosaic, covering roughly 50 square meters, is believed to have decorated a hall belonging either to a Roman public building or to an elite residence. The floor’s surviving panels depict a woman carrying a basket of fruits, geometric and three-dimensional motifs, and a female figure personifying Lake Iznik, once known by its Roman name Askania.
Archaeologist Yusuf Kahveci, part of the excavation team, explained that earlier surveys showed the mosaic extended beneath the road and a neighboring property, prompting expropriation. This season’s work uncovered the full decorated surface along with sections of the surrounding walls. Ceramics, coins and stylistic details helped date the mosaic to the 3rd century.
Kahveci noted that the building originally had painted walls and marble floors, though most were removed or damaged over the centuries. The mosaic’s border is decorated with pomegranate and ivy leaves, framing three main panels. One shows a goddess of abundance beside small mythological figures, while another highlights Askania — Lake Iznik — rendered as an ancient woman with algae-like hair, a crown of crab claws, and waves around her neck.
The mosaic’s braided borders and complex patterns, including labyrinths and Gordian-knot motifs, demonstrate exceptional workmanship. While the exact function of the structure is not yet certain, Kahveci suggested it may have been a state-built complex, a wealthy villa, or a bathhouse. Excavations have also revealed evidence of continuous settlement on the site from the 3rd century through the Byzantine era and into the early Turkish Republic.

Published on: 20-11-2025

Source: Daily Sabah