In the Eastern Anatolia region of Türkiye, an unsuspecting farmer made a historic archaeological discovery. While digging holes, the farmer found a sprawling, centuries-old Roman mosaic floor beneath the dirt. Experts say it is the only one of its kind to be found in the region.
“I Noticed the Mosaic While Planting”
Mehmet Emin Sualp, a farmer from the Salkaya village in Türkiye’s eastern Elâzığ province, unearthed the Roman mosaic by chance while planting saplings. Aware of its potential historical and cultural significance, Sualp immediately got in touch with experts. He explained, “I noticed the mosaic while planting. Since then, I’ve been involved in the excavation work. It’s impossible to assign a monetary value to this discovery now. The museum will know best what this site is worth.”
The Roman mosaic floor, which originally belonged to a historic building, measures over 275 square feet. Experts say the mosaic dates back to the Late Roman or Early Byzantine period and that it is the first of its kind to be found in Türkiye. The remains of a church and a wine cellar were also uncovered near the Roman mosaic.
Roman Mosaic Depicts Local Wildlife
Under the direction of the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Elâzığ Museum Directorate carried out the excavations of the Roman mosaic. Remarkably, the floor has remained in one piece for centuries. It comprises intricate depictions of local flora and fauna species—including lions, mountain goats, ducks, greyhounds, deer, pheasants, boars, bears, geese, and Anatolian leopards, as well as various plants and trees.
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Governor Numan Hatipoğlu of Elâzığ recently visited the Roman mosaic archaeological site, where he said, “It is an incredible find for our region. The vibrant representation of local fauna, including bears, wild boars, and various deer species, vividly reflects the area’s biodiversity during the Roman and Byzantine periods.”
Future Plans for the Roman Mosaic
While touring the site, Governor Hatipoğlu also emphasized that ongoing excavations in the area are likely to reveal additional discoveries. He said, “As a result of our research in the region, if areas where we need to carry out excavation work again emerge, we will also work on them. As a result of our studies, if there are historical artifacts suitable for exhibition and display in the region, we will develop a different strategy for this place. If not, we will prepare this historical artifact for exhibition in Elâzığ Center.” The Roman mosaic is expected to draw the attention of both researchers and tourists.
