Byzantine Mosaic Found in Turkish Monastery

A remarkable discovery was made during excavation work at the Church of St. Constantine and Helena Monastery in Ordu, Turkey, where archaeologists have uncovered a well-preserved floor mosaic dating back to the early Byzantine period. This mosaic, found in situ, represents a significant find for the region, offering new insights into the artistic and cultural expressions of the time.

A Rare Find in Ordu

The discovery was made under the scientific supervision of Assoc. Prof. Seckin Evcim, with the excavation led by the Ordu Museum Directorate. According to the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, this mosaic is the first in-situ floor mosaic to be discovered in the Ordu province, marking a significant milestone in the region’s archaeological record. The mosaic, which has been dated to the 5th and 6th centuries AD, provides a tangible connection to the early Byzantine era, a period marked by the spread of Christianity and the flourishing of religious art, writes Turkiye Today.

The mosaic was found within the Church of St. Constantine and Helena, a monastery that has long been a site of historical and religious significance in Ordu. The church itself is named after Constantine the Great, the first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity, and his mother, Helena, who is revered for her pilgrimage to the Holy Land and her role in discovering the True Cross.

The discovery of the mosaic adds a new layer of historical depth to the site, emphasizing its importance during the early Byzantine period.

Artistic Features of the Mosaic

The mosaic is a stunning example of early Byzantine artistry, featuring intricate geometric and botanical motifs that were popular during this era. The rhombus motifs and the surrounding labryses—a double-headed axe symbol—are particularly noteworthy, as these designs can be compared to similar mosaics found elsewhere in Anatolia, suggesting a shared artistic tradition across the region.

Close up of a section of geometric motifs on the mosaic. (Mehmet Nuri Ersoy)

One of the most striking elements of the mosaic is the use of the curved acanthus design, a motif that has its roots in classical antiquity but was adapted and stylized during the Byzantine period. The mosaic also includes animal figures and fruit motifs, which are believed to symbolize nature and abundance. These designs reflect the early Byzantine artistic understanding, where nature was often depicted in a stylized, symbolic manner, blending pagan and Christian imagery.

The colors and craftsmanship of the mosaic are exceptionally well-preserved, offering a vivid glimpse into the aesthetic sensibilities of the time. The discovery of such a mosaic in its original setting is rare, making this find particularly valuable for scholars studying Byzantine art and architecture.

A section of the mosaic with a botanical motif. (Mehmet Nuri Ersoy)

Continuing Excavations and Future Discoveries

The discovery of this mosaic is just the beginning of what promises to be a fruitful excavation at the St. Constantine and Helena Monastery.

The Ordu Museum Directorate and the excavation team are committed to preserving and studying the mosaic, as well as exploring the surrounding area for additional artifacts. The ongoing excavations are expected to reveal more about the religious and cultural life of the early Byzantine period in this part of Turkey, contributing to a deeper understanding of the region’s historical heritage.

Top image: Byzantine mosaic discovered at Church of St. Constantine and Helena Monastery in Ordu, Turkey.                Source: Mehmet Nuri Ersoy

By Gary Manners