Archaeologists uncovered a mosaic inscription at the Church No. 1 in Olympos, Turkey, stating, 'Only those on the right path may enter here.' This inscription aimed to guide the conduct of individuals entering the sacred space, deterring non-Christians. Additional floor mosaics featuring geometric and botanical designs were also found in the church. Researchers discovered a civilian home built over a Roman-era burial site. The home, constructed in the fifth century, maintained its layout during a sixth-century reconstruction. Olympos is noted for its rich mosaic heritage, as highlighted by excavation director Gokcen Kutulus Oztaskin.
The message, laid out as a stunning mosaic, reads: 'Only those on the right path may enter here.' This inscription was intended to direct conduct of entrants.
Gokcen Kutulus Oztaskin stated, 'These finds confirm Olympos as one of the richest ancient cities in the Lycia region in terms of mosaic flooring.'
The mosaic inscription was composed using colored tiles formed into a circular shape, placed directly at the church's entrance to deter non-Christians.
Excavations have uncovered other mosaics throughout the church ruins and the remains of a civilian home built over a former Roman-era necropolis.
Collection
[
|
...
]