Unlocking the Enigma of the 1,700-Year-Old Mosaic

Introduction

The enigma surrounding the mosaic, dating back 1,700 years, which was discovered during excavations in the Amasya province of northern Turkey 11 years ago and recently displayed, has been deciphered. According to the investigation, the Greek inscriptions 'KTI - CIC' and 'ΠAPEM - BOΛH' on the medallion, featuring god figures at its core, represent a Roman military division.

Discovered in 2013 during a rescue excavation conducted by officials from the Amasya Museum near a high school at the entrance of the city, the 80-meter floor mosaic was covered and protected after undergoing thorough examinations. The intricate artifact, featuring two inscribed figures labeled 'KTI - CIC' and '?APEM - BO?H' along with unique geometric designs unseen in previous excavations, was found and preserved by the museum authorities.

According to Celal Özdemir, director of the Amasya Museum, the central medallion is significant as it identifies the mosaics. Our investigation revealed that the Greek phrase 'ΠAPEM-BOΛH' surrounds the depiction of the deity Priapos, representing the Parem-Bole military division. This central medallion serves as the title for the mosaic.

According to the study, the inscription 'ΠAPEM' and 'BOΛH' in Greek on a medallion featuring a deity in the center of a mosaic represent a Roman military unit. A photo by İHA accompanies the findings.

According to Greek mythology, Priapus, also known as Priapos, is the deity of fertility and protector of male reproductive organs, crops, and livestock. During the Hellenistic era, which followed classical Greece and the rise of the Roman Empire, the Roman god Priapus was venerated.

The discovery of a military unit's mosaic remains unprecedented.

According to Celal Özdemir, it is significant to note that a mosaic representing a Roman military unit or battalion, associated with legions, has not been unearthed in Anatolia until now. The available research suggests that this mosaic is one-of-a-kind in this aspect.

Özdemir recalled that Amasya played a significant role in the history of both the Ottoman and Seljuk empires, and was also recognized as a prominent center during the Hellenistic era. He expressed anticipation for the discovery of new artifacts, particularly notable mosaics. He also mentioned that as the excavation work progresses, more remnants of the ancient city are expected to surface.

The study uncovered that the Greek words 'ΠAPEM' and 'BOΛH' inscribed on the medallion featuring a deity in the center of the mosaic represent the Roman military unit. Image: İHA

Amasya, situated in the Middle Black Sea area, was built on the hills of Mound Harşena in Yeşilırmak Valley. Its origins can be traced back to 4000 BC, making it one of the world's oldest cities that has been inhabited continuously.

Throughout its history, Amasya has been under the rule of various ancient civilizations such as the Hittites, Phrygians, Assyrians, Scythians, and Persians. One of the most noteworthy periods in the city's past was during the Kingdom of Pontus, where it served as the capital of this Hellenistic kingdom. Many of Amasya's historical landmarks can be traced back to this era. The city boasts a rich cultural heritage and is home to significant sites such as "Mount Harşena and the Rock Tombs of Pontic Kings," which are currently on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, as well as Amasya Castle and museums.

During the reign of the Romans and later the Byzantines, Amasya flourished as both a hub of culture and a center for administration. This period saw the construction of numerous architectural wonders, such as bridges and fortifications, that still stand in the city today. One of the most remarkable finds from this era is a rare gold coin, likely brought from Constantinople, that was recently discovered in Norway.

In the time of the Ottoman Empire, Amasya was selected as a place for young sultans to be trained. Princes such as Murad II and Selim I were sent to Amasya in order to gain practical knowledge and skills in governing and managing the state. This tradition was similar to the modern practice of internships or apprenticeships for future leaders.