According to a statement made by Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy on X, during the excavations conducted at Aspendos, “an exceptionally important discovery has been brought to light that will shed new light on the mosaic art of Roman-period Anatolia”.

At the center of the mosaic uncovered is a depiction of the “Young Eurymedon,” symbolizing the Eurymedon River, which gave life to the city.

Enriched with motifs of reed leaves, an amphora, and fish, this composition reflects a symbolic representation of water, abundance, and life.

Distinguished by its subtle color gradations created with small tesserae, its wealth of detail, and its high level of craftsmanship, the work is particularly significant as one of the rare examples of river-god iconography in mosaic art.

This discovery not only reveals the artistic richness of Aspendos but also provides important scientific data for the study of Roman-period Anatolian mosaic art.

“This discovery not only reveals the artistic richness of Aspendos, but also provides important scientific data on Roman-period Anatolian mosaic art,” said Nuri Ersoy.