18.06.2026 11:21
During the ongoing excavation works in the Ancient City of Aspendos in Antalya, a depiction of a "River God," which is quite rare in mosaic art, has been uncovered. At the center of the mosaic is the figure of Young Eurymedon, symbolizing the Eurymedon River.
In the mosaic unearthed in Aspendos, the Eurymedon River, which gave life to the city, was depicted as a young god figure. Experts state that the discovery will make significant contributions to the understanding of Roman period Anatolian mosaic art.
NOTEWORTHY DISCOVERY ON THEATER STREET According to a statement from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, during excavations carried out on the East Square of Theater Street, which connects the Aspendos Acropolis to the theater, a mosaic architectural structure measuring approximately 6 by 25 meters was uncovered between the square and the eastern city walls.
Based on initial assessments, it was determined that the structure was built as a pool at the beginning of the 3rd century AD. The mosaic flooring, uncovered in the approximately 6 by 7.50 meter section where excavation has been completed so far, was found to continue in areas not yet excavated.
Experts believe that after the earthquake in 262 AD, the structure was divided with interior walls and converted into different spaces.
THE CENTER OF THE MOSAIC FEATURES THE YOUNG EURYMEDON FIGURE While the first panel of the unearthed mosaic floor consists of geometric decorations, the second panel features a figurative composition. Based on iconographic characteristics and similar examples, the figure in question is considered to be "the Aspendos River God Young Eurymedon," symbolizing the Eurymedon River that gave life to Aspendos.
DEPICTED WITH REED LEAVES, AN AMPHORA, AND FISH The River God figure at the center of the mosaic is depicted with reed leaves on his head and in his hand. Symbolizing the fertility of nature and the life-giving power of water, the figure is portrayed leaning against an amphora from which water flows, accompanied by fish swimming towards each other in the river.
The fish figures completing the composition add movement to the scene and reveal the richness of the aquatic world. Experts state that the mosaic holds great significance both scientifically and culturally.
WILL SHED LIGHT ON ROMAN PERIOD MOSAIC ART It was stated that the discovery provides important data regarding Roman period Anatolian mosaic art. The fact that river god depictions are particularly rare in mosaic art further increases the value of the artifact.
STATEMENT FROM MINISTER ERSOY In a statement made on his social media account regarding the find, Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy said, "In our excavation work in Aspendos, we have unearthed an extremely important discovery that will shed light on Roman period Anatolian mosaic art. At the center of the mosaic uncovered on Theater Street is a depiction of 'Young Eurymedon,' symbolizing the Eurymedon River that gave life to the city. This composition, enriched with reed leaves, an amphora, and fish figures, reflects the symbolic expression of water, fertility, and life. The work, which stands out with its color transitions created with small tesserae, richness of detail, and high craftsmanship, also holds special significance as one of the very rare river god depictions in mosaic art. This discovery not only reveals the artistic richness of Aspendos but also provides important scientific data regarding Roman period Anatolian mosaic art. I thank the valuable experts of our Ministry's General Directorate of Cultural Heritage and Museums, our excavation team, and everyone who contributed."