An Accidental Find in a Vineyard
A rare Roman-era mosaic has been uncovered in northern Türkiye after looters disturbed the garden of a vineyard house in Tokat's Zile district, prompting archaeologists to launch a rescue excavation to preserve and document the find.
The mosaic dates to the second century A.D. and bears the Ancient Greek inscription “ΤΡΥΦΗ” (Tryphe), meaning “luxury” or “abundance.” It combines intricate geometric patterns with detailed human figures, created using the advanced Roman techniques opus vermiculatum and opus tessellatum, and its craftsmanship has drawn comparisons to Türkiye's famed Gypsy Girl Mosaic.
A Historic District
The find underscores the historical weight of Zile, best known as the site where Julius Caesar declared his famous “veni, vidi, vici” after a decisive victory in 47 B.C. Excavations are ongoing as archaeologists work to fully document and protect the mosaic in place.
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