In Alanya, on the territory of the ancient city of Syedra, archaeologists have discovered a unique mosaic with an inscription. Its meaning corresponds to the modern expression “Let the envious burst with envy.” The find was made during ongoing excavations.
The mosaic, covering an area of about 15 square meters, dates back to the 4th–6th centuries AD. It was discovered at the entrance of one of the largest residential buildings of the ancient city as part of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Türkiye’s “Heritage for the Future” project. According to the head of the excavation, Associate Professor Ertuğ Ergürer, two inscriptions are of particular importance: in the central part — a wish of prosperity that can be translated as “enjoy” or “use with good fortune,” and at the entrance — a phrase formed from the words “envy” and “explosion,” metaphorically meaning “let the envious be destroyed.”
The excellent preservation of the mosaic is explained by the fact that in later periods the entrance to the building was sealed. The structure itself was used for several centuries — from the 2nd to the 7th century AD — changing owners over time, while some parts were isolated, which helped preserve decorative elements.
Restoration and conservation work has already been completed. Under the supervision of restorer Selma Yağcı, specialists reassembled the mosaic fragments, filled the joints, and applied a protective coating. The ornament, featuring geometric and floral motifs, along with the ironic inscription, shows that people in antiquity used expressive and relatable forms of communication.
The ancient city of Syedra is located on a hill between Alanya and Gazipaşa, on the Mediterranean coast. Its history spans about three thousand years. The city was an important regional center during the Roman and Byzantine periods. Today, ruins of baths, colonnaded streets, water reservoirs, churches, and residential buildings have been preserved. Syedra is known for its mosaics, advanced water supply system, and scenic location with panoramic coastal views.
Syedra is one of the most beautiful and popular attractions of Alanya. It is located on picturesque forested hills overlooking the sea, offering plenty to explore for hiking enthusiasts.
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