Archaeological digs in Assos, an ancient city located in Behramkale village in Turkey’s Çanakkale province, have revealed a stunning 2,200-year-old mosaic and an impressive 1,800-year-old monumental tomb.
Led by Professor Nurettin Arslan, head of the Assos excavation team from Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, the 44th season of excavations—sponsored by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and Istanbul Steel and Iron Industries Inc. (ICDAS)—has yielded significant discoveries.
The excavation work in Assos dates back to the first scientific digs between 1881 and 1883, with efforts resuming in 1981. Since then, continuous excavations have unearthed valuable artifacts and architectural remnants.
Assos is widely recognized as a significant Hellenistic city. Situated atop a volcanic hill on the southern coast of the ancient region of Troas, Assos overlooks the island of Lesbos. The city, founded in the 3rd century BCE, was an important cultural and philosophical hub during the Hellenistic period, attracting intellectuals such as Aristotle. It also served as a prominent port city and was a center for trade and culture. Today, Assos remains a popular destination for tourists, known for its well-preserved ruins, including the Temple of Athena from the 6th century BC.
Professor Arslan shared new findings from the current excavation season, highlighting a colorful mosaic from the Hellenistic period and a monumental tomb from the Roman era.
The mosaic, composed of colorful polygonal stones arranged in geometric and floral patterns, was discovered adjacent to the western city wall. Arslan noted that mosaics like this one are rarely found intact in Anatolia, though similar examples exist in cities across Macedonia and Greece. Based on current estimates, the mosaic is believed to be one of the earliest examples of Hellenistic mosaics in Anatolia, dating back 2,200 years. The structure likely served as a gymnasium during the Hellenistic period before being repurposed as a residential area during the Byzantine period. Remarkably, the mosaic remains in excellent condition despite the area’s later use.
Another significant discovery was made at the eastern section of the agora, where a previously misidentified “fountain” turned out to be a monumental tomb, or heroon, belonging to a prominent family in Assos. Arslan also mentioned a previously known tomb monument in the southern stoa, which was the resting place of two brothers. This newly uncovered tomb from the Roman period is likely linked to another influential family in Assos.
The ongoing excavations continue to shed light on Assos’ rich history, particularly during the Hellenistic period, and its importance in ancient Mediterranean culture.
Cover Image Credit: An aerial view of the Assos excavation site in Behramkale village, Çanakkale province, Türkiye. Photo: AA