Archaeologists in Turkey have uncovered a grand Greco-Roman residential complex, dubbed the “Mosaic House,” in the ancient city of Pergamon, which is located only 16 miles (26km) from the Aegean Sea.

Once a thriving Greek city on the northern edge of the Caicus Plain, Pergamon flourished during the Hellenistic period as the capital of the Kingdom of Pergamon. It later became a prominent cultural hub under Roman rule, often hailed as a “second Athens” for its architectural and intellectual achievements.

The city was home to the renowned Library of Pergamon—second only to the Library of Alexandria—and featured an impressive theater capable of seating up to 10,000 spectators.

Mosaic House in Pergamon

Recent excavations, led by Prof. Dr. Yusuf Sezgin of Manisa Celal Bayar University, have revealed a sprawling peristyle-style residence with an elegant central courtyard and an ornate pool.

The intricately designed mosaic flooring showcases a blend of Greek artistry and Roman influences, reflecting the high social status of its former occupants. Experts estimate that the residence dates back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD but was abandoned following a devastating fire, likely caused by the Arab raids of the 7th century.

The mosaics, adorned with vibrant geometric and floral motifs, demonstrate a fusion of Greco-Roman artistic traditions from the 3rd and 4th centuries AD.

Additionally, the excavation team discovered a rare sealed roof tile from the Hellenistic period inscribed with the word “Basilique,” indicating possible royal ownership. While similar fragments have been unearthed before, this marks the first time a fully intact sealed tile has been found in Pergamon.

The discovery of the “Mosaic House” provides valuable insights into the architectural and cultural synthesis of Greek and Roman traditions in ancient Pergamon, shedding new light on the luxurious lifestyles of its elite inhabitants.

Pergamon was a jewel in Anatolia

The ancient Greek city flourished during the Attalid Dynasty, from 282 to 133 BC. The Attalids made Pergamon a model city and, at the same time, a powerful state that became famous in the ancient world and expanded in Anatolia due to a favorable alliance with Rome. It was the cultural patronage and political acumen that made the Attalids worthy descendants of Alexander the Great.

Pergamon was a jewel in Anatolia . Its extensive city wall surrounded marvelous monumental temples, a theater, stoa or porticoes, a gymnasium, an altar, and a library.

The famous Library of Pergamon, which was said to contain over 200,000 scrolls, was one of the most important libraries of the ancient world and rivaled that of Alexandria. The theater was one of the largest in that time holding around 10,000 spectators.