Antalya: Archaeologists in the Turkish city Antalya's Alanya district have uncovered a nearly 15-square-meter mosaic dating back to the 4th-6th centuries AD at the ancient city of Syedra, featuring an inscription that translates roughly to 'may the jealous burst with envy.'
According to Anadolu Agency, the excavations at the 3,000-year-old city are continuing under the 'Legacy to the Future Project' of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, led by Associate Professor Ertug Ergurer of Alaaddin Keykubat University. Ergurer mentioned that the team discovered the mosaic in one of the city's largest residences, located at the main entrance of the building, and noted that it is very well preserved.
"It consists of geometric patterns and various floral motifs. We are still in the early stages of study, but we date it between the 4th and 6th centuries AD," he noted. Ergurer highlighted the uniqueness of the mosaic due to the presence of two inscriptions. At the center is an inscription that can be interpreted as 'use with luck' or 'farewell with good wishes.' At the room's entrance, a second inscription appears within a circular border, conveying the figurative meaning: 'may the jealous burst with envy.'
Ergurer expressed surprise at finding such a phrase at the entrance of a 1,500-year-old building. He emphasized the importance of the structure in Syedra, noting that excavation and restoration efforts continue in various sections. The three-story building includes north-side entrances leading to the second and third floors, numerous rooms, and a central courtyard, and was in use from the 2nd to the 7th centuries AD. Over time, ownership changed, new rooms were added, and some areas were closed off. In later periods, the entrance and mosaic section were covered, preserving the mosaic in excellent condition.
He also mentioned that the mosaic and the building have been placed under protection, with ongoing cleaning and restoration work. Conservator-restorer Selma Yagci, part of the excavation team, stated that restoration began immediately after documenting the mosaic, addressing urgent areas, reassembling scattered sections, filling joints, and applying a protective surface layer, leaving the mosaic in good condition.