Ancient mosaic featuring ‘cheerful’ skeleton found in Turkey
Posted April 22, 2016 7:17 am.
Last Updated April 22, 2016 8:00 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
ANKARA, Turkey – Turkey’s state-run news agency says archaeologists have unearthed an ancient mosaic featuring a reclining skeleton holding a drink with the inscription in Greek: “Be cheerful, enjoy life.”
Anadolu Agency said Friday the mosaic was discovered during excavations in the Syrian border province of Hatay — ancient Antioch — which boasts Turkey’s largest collection of ancient mosaics.
Anadolu said the floor mosaic, dating from the third century B.C., is believed to have decorated the dining area of a home. The skeleton, featured on a black background, is surrounded by bread and an amphora.
Anadolu quoted archaeologist Demet Kara as saying the mosaic is unique in Turkey but a similar one has been found in Italy.
