Awe and admiration can be expressed by the findings of a complete mosaic floor dated in the first half of the 4th century AD at Akaki village in Nicosia district, illustrating a chariot scene taking place in the hippodrome.
Archaeologists presented to the media on Tuesday the complete mosaic floor discovered at Piadhia locality, at Akaki. The mosaic, according to archaeologists, is unique due to its unparalleled subject and high quality with a rich geometric decoration.
Excavations were carried out under the supervision of the Archeological Officer Dr Fryni Hadjichristophi, who said the discovery of the complete floor reveals four stages of a race with four chariots in the hippodrome.
The two inscriptions which are shown on top of each chariot, are the names of the charioteer and the horse, she added.
An equally important finding is the table, which was unearthed at the western end of the gallery, with a circular pattern, and inside nine medal shapes which depict busts of female figures.
Speaking to the press, head of the Antiquities Department, Marina Ieronimidou said that despite the fact that the mosaic floor has not yet been restored or properly cleaned up, “we can still identify the nine muses which bear a unique symbol of what they represent”.
She said the findings at the site are extremely special due to the style and subject matter, adding that it is an unparalleled discovery in a remote inland area offering important information about the specific period in Cyprus. It also provides additional information about mosaic floors in Cyprus.
Ieronomidou said that the excavations will continue next May since there are indications that more important findings in the area will probably be unearthed.
“We will continue the excavation in a scientific manner and hope that this site will be open to the public at some point”, she added. For the time being, the site will be protected.
Communications Minister Marios Demetriades said he was very happy and satisfied at the findings, adding “it is a truly, remarkable finding”.
He also pointed out the role of the Antiquities Department in Cyprus, saying everyone should contribute “because it depicts the great archeological heritage that Cyprus has”.
He assured that both him and the government and will stand by the department.
The incredible mosaic has a length of 26 metres and a 4m width.
