Top 10 must-see ancient mosaics in Türkiye

Türkiye has been home to numerous civilizations throughout history, with the Roman and Byzantine Empires particularly known for their breathtaking mosaics. Mosaic art is undoubtedly beautiful, but the creation process is time-consuming. Artists meticulously combined thousands of colored and irregular glass, ceramic, or stone pieces to produce these masterpieces.

These mosaics, which adorned floors and walls, not only added aesthetic value to their surroundings but also provided valuable insights into the social life of the culture they belonged to.

From mythological scenes to historical events, important figures, and everyday life, the mosaics offer a glimpse into ancient clothing, accessories, professions, tools, food, architecture, and interpersonal relationships, forming a tangible connection between us and the ancient world.

Today, as you travel through Türkiye, you can still witness many of these beautiful mosaics in the country’s numerous museums and archaeological sites. Türkiye is home to many mosaic museums, two of which are the largest in the world!

These museums include Zeugma Mosaic Museum, Hatay Archaeology Museum, Great Palace Mosaic Museum, Haleplibahce Mosaic Museum, and Narlikuyu Mosaic Museum.

Here are 10 incredible mosaics you can visit during your next trip to Türkiye:

1- Ktisis Mosaic

This striking mosaic depicts Ktisis, the bejeweled woman symbolizing the foundation of a Roman city. She is seen holding an ancient Roman measuring tool, reminding us that the Roman foot used in measurements was about 29.7 centimeters.

2- ‘Gypsy Girl’ mosaic

The second-largest mosaic museum in the world, Zeugma boasts numerous masterpieces. Its most famous mosaic is the “Gypsy Girl,” also known as the “Mona Lisa of Zeugma.” Her mesmerizing gaze captivates all who behold her.

3- Reflect on daily life in Byzantine

This museum houses Byzantine-era mosaics that reflect the daily life, nature, and mythology of the time. Found in the Eastern Roman Grand Palace, these mosaics date back to 450-550 A.D. and were created during the reign of Emperor Constantine the Great.

4- Skeleton mosaic

The cheerful skeleton mosaic from the third-century Roman era sends a simple yet profound message: Enjoy life! This quirky artifact is one of the most famous pieces in the largest mosaic museum in Türkiye.

5- Orpheus Mosaic

The Orpheus Mosaic, the oldest in the region (194 A.D.), depicts the musician Orpheus playing his lyre, attracting animals. This mythological scene is an important artifact from the area.

6- Metropolis Mosaic

The ancient city of Metropolis has left behind stunning mosaics, featuring rare stones like opal, lapis and turquoise. These nearly 2,000-year-old mosaics are thought to have been created by famous artists of the time.

7- Sebastapolis Mosaic

The intricate mosaics found at Sebastapolis make us think about the legacies we leave behind for future generations.

8- Amisos Mosaic

The Amisos Mosaic, featuring Achilles and Thetis at its center, dates back to the third century A.D. It is believed to have been created by an artist from Zeugma due to its resemblance to the region’s style.

9- Three Daughters Mosaic

This Roman-era mosaic beautifully portrays the three daughters of Zeus – Aglaia, Thalia, and Euphrosine (the Charites) – who were believed to be the protectors of all art forms and the inspiration of people and gods.

10- Oceanos and Tethys Mosaic

Zeugma Mosaic Museum, Gaziantep
The mosaic of marine gods Oceanos and Tethys, along with other intricate details, is one of the many fascinating works housed in the Zeugma Mosaic Museum.

Embark on a journey through Türkiye’s mosaic museums and marvel at the rich cultural history preserved in these timeless works of art!