Archaeologists in Turkey have unearthed a fifth-century Christian mosaic in Urfa, traditionally regarded as the birthplace of Abraham. The mosaic, dating back to 460-495 AD, was discovered at Urfa Castle, a Byzantine-era structure located in southeastern Turkey. The artwork features geometric patterns, an inscription in Koine Greek, and motifs of animals and plants, offering valuable insights into early Byzantine art and religious practices.
The discovery was reported by Anadolu Agency (AA), a state-run outlet based in Ankara, on October 19. Urfa, officially known as Şanlıurfa, is home to the historic Urfa Castle, which has been damaged during the February 2023 Turkey–Syria earthquakes. The archaeologists involved in the excavation, led by Gülriz Kozbe, have highlighted the significance of the mosaic, which is likely part of a Christian site such as a church or shrine dedicated to martyrs.
The mosaic’s inscription mentions that it was built for the protection of Count Anaskas and his family, and references high-ranking church figures such as Bishop Kyros and Chief Priest Elias. These details help identify the individuals who oversaw the area’s religious duties at the time. The symbols in the artwork, particularly those representing natural elements, have provided clues about ancient religious rituals, further enriching our understanding of the period.
Urfa Governor Hasan Şıldak emphasized the importance of the discovery in preserving the city’s historical character. He mentioned that the restoration of Urfa Castle aims to be completed by late 2026, and the mosaic will add significant cultural and scientific value to the city’s tourism and history. This discovery is part of a series of recent finds in Asia Minor that shed light on early Christianity, including a Roman hospital-turned-Christian sanctuary found in the ancient city of Kaunos and more than 60 tombs uncovered in Colossae, a city mentioned in the Bible.
The find has sparked interest among scholars and historians, with the potential to deepen our knowledge of early Christian practices and the cultural exchanges in the region. The mosaic’s unique features, combined with its historical context, make it a valuable artifact for understanding the religious and artistic developments of the Byzantine era.