(ORDO NEWS) — This is an impressive mosaic floor, which stands out both for its good condition and high workmanship and can be dated to the first half of the 4th century BC. AD, which was discovered during excavations at the site of Piatkia, in Akaki, Nicosia province, in 2015.
The excavations were carried out under the direction of the archaeologist, Dr. Fryni Hatzichristofi, with the help of the archaeologist, Dr. Vasiliki Lysandrou, and lasted nine weeks.
According to an announcement from the Department of Antiquities of Cyprus, during the first period of excavation, in 2014, the remains of the building were discovered at a minimum depth underground.
A special place in this area is occupied by a huge reservoir measuring 10 × 14 m to mark the eastern end of the building, as well as four parallel carvings on natural rock.
Excavations have so far unearthed part of a mosaic depicting chariot races taking place inside the hippodrome, in rich geometric decoration. The virtual scene includes tetrips in which the driver is shown standing, wrestling around his back.
Each chariot is accompanied by two inscriptions. The spire depicts three columns, ending with three bronze dolphins, from which water flows, and a temple. Among the chariots are a man on horseback and two pedestrians holding one whip and the other a vessel of water.
Although the building has not yet been identified, the presence of this mosaic floor in a remote area of the hinterland offers important new data for this period in Cyprus and adds to our knowledge of the use of mosaic floors on the island.
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