You can also read this article in Turkish. Diyarbakır’da Davud Yıldızı ve Haç Motifli Antik Mozaik Keşfedildi

An extraordinary mosaic has been unearthed in Diyarbakır’s Ergani district during a burial excavation, revealing a rare combination of symbols: a Star of David containing a cross, alongside a six-line inscription in ancient Greek.

The discovery was made on March 8 in Özbilek village when an excavator, digging a grave, struck the remains of the mosaic. Following the report, the Diyarbakır Museum Directorate launched a rescue excavation on March 11. Archaeologists uncovered a 35-square-meter mosaic dating to the Late Roman–Early Byzantine period.

Preliminary studies revealed two sections with distinct designs. The first features an octagonal central figure surrounded by geometric diamond patterns, a large cross to the east, multicolored motifs to the west, and teardrop patterns to the southwest. Adjacent to these designs is a large diamond motif and a rectangular frieze containing the partially preserved Greek inscription.

“The most striking element is the Star of David containing a cross at its center, along with the six-line Greek inscription, though much of it is damaged and unreadable,” said Müjdat Gizligöl, Acting Director of Diyarbakır Museum. “Once deciphered, we will share the text publicly.”

According to Gizligöl, about 70% of the mosaic survives intact, while 30% has been lost. He emphasized that the find challenges the long-held belief that the Roman Empire rarely extended east of the Euphrates, showing instead that it left enduring traces in the region. He also noted that this is only the second mosaic found in its original location in Diyarbakır, the first being discovered in Çınar’s Özgider village.

The site, situated 66 kilometers from Diyarbakır and believed to have been part of a Roman village with villas along a now-dry stream, has been reburied for preservation after documentation. The Regional Board for the Protection of Cultural Heritage decided that the mosaic should remain in situ, and the area was secured with protective covering.

“This area is part of a large ancient settlement, and we expect future scientific excavations to reveal more mosaics,” Gizligöl added. “However, since villagers use the land as a cemetery, a new burial site must be allocated to prevent further disturbance.”