16.03.2026 15:16
A mosaic measuring approximately 15 square meters, dating from the 4th to 6th centuries AD and containing the phrase "let the envious burst," has been uncovered at the ancient city of Syedra in the Alanya district of Antalya. Excavation work is ongoing.
The excavation work led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ertuğ Ergürer from Alaaddin Keykubat University Faculty of Tourism, under the "Heritage for the Future Project" of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, continues in the ancient city, which dates back approximately 3,000 years.
Excavation Director Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ertuğ Ergürer stated to AA correspondent that they reached an important finding during the excavation work carried out in one of the largest residences of the city.
Ergürer noted that a well-preserved mosaic was uncovered in the central entrance section of the structure, saying, "We are still conducting our initial studies on the mosaic, which consists of geometric and various flower motifs. We believe the mosaic dates back to between the 4th and 6th centuries."
"IT WAS A GREAT SURPRISE FOR US"
Ergürer noted that the element that makes the approximately 15 square meter mosaic special is the presence of two inscriptions, and continued:
"In the middle section of the mosaic, there is an expression that means 'use it well' or 'use it with luck.' In the entrance door section of the room, there is a second inscription within a round border. This inscription has a somewhat metaphorical meaning. The first word in the inscription means 'jealousy' or 'jealous,' and the second word means 'cracking, bursting.' It corresponds to the expression we use today, 'may the jealous burst.' Encountering such an expression at the entrance of a structure built about 1500 years ago was a great surprise for us."
Ergürer evaluated that the structure is one of the important residences of Syedra, noting that excavation and restoration works will continue at certain points of the residence.
Ergürer explained that there are entrances to the second and third floors in the northern section of the three-story structure, saying, "The structure, which has numerous rooms and a central courtyard in the middle, was used from the 2nd century AD to the 7th century. During this period, the homeowners changed, new spaces were added, floors were built, and some sections were closed off. In later periods, the entrance part of this mosaic section was covered. The covering of the mosaic has allowed it to remain so well-preserved until today." he said.
THE MOSAIC IS UNDER PROTECTION
Ergürer drew attention to the fact that the mosaic and the structure are being protected through restoration works, stating that cleaning efforts will continue.
Conservator-restorer Selma Yağcı, who is part of the excavation team, also said that they started the restoration process after the mosaic uncovered during the excavation was identified.
Yağcı stated that the overall condition of the mosaic is good, saying, "There were areas that required local urgent intervention. Then we applied the border. We identified the scattered sections and gathered them. After placing the pieces back in their places, we completed the process by performing the joint fillings. After the local works, we finished the process by applying a surface protective treatment."