Ancient Laodicea Mosaic Draws Attention With Its Greek Inscription

The geometric floor mosaic preserved at the ancient city of Laodicea in Konya’s Ladik district remains one of the site’s most remarkable archaeological features thanks to the Greek inscription embedded at its center.

Discovered during excavations carried out on private land before a construction project, the mosaic was found inside the remains of an ancient gymnasium, a public building where athletic training and various social activities took place in antiquity. Archaeologists also uncovered columns, column bases and a tomb built with reused architectural materials during the excavation.

The inscription on the mosaic reads, “Made in the name of Ergenus, son of Dökumanos,” providing a rare glimpse into the people connected with the structure centuries ago. Such inscriptions are considered valuable sources for understanding the history and administration of ancient settlements.

Rather than being removed, the mosaic has been preserved where it was uncovered. It is protected by a specially constructed roof and conservation materials to ensure its long-term survival while remaining part of its original archaeological setting.