In 2015, archaeologists in Cyprus made a remarkable discovery—an intricately designed 4th-century Roman mosaic depicting a dramatic chariot race. Unearthed in the village of Akaki, near Nicosia, this stunning floor mosaic is one of only a few known worldwide that vividly portray the excitement of ancient Roman hippodromes.
The mosaic floor, which stands out both for its good condition and for the high quality of its construction is dated to the first half of the 4th century.
Measuring 36 feet long and 13 feet wide, it depicts a chariot race—with four chariots, their drivers and horses. It is one of only a few known worldwide that depict chariot races in such detail, making it a unique and valuable find for understanding the cultural and artistic landscape of ancient Cyprus.
Each chariot is accompanied by two inscriptions. The steeple depicts three columns ending in three bronze dolphins, from which water flows, and a temple. Among the chariots appear a man on horseback and two pedestrians one holding a whip and the other a vessel of water.
The mosaic may have been part of the floor in a villa belonging to a wealthy person during the days the Romans ruled the island.
Cyprus’ mosaic names drivers in chariot race
Each chariot is accompanied by two names above each chariot, written in Greek. One is the name of a charioteer and the other is the name of a horse.
The names usually express some kind of special characteristic about the chariot driver and the horse.
The spina (central barrier) is adorned with three columns topped by dolphin figures from which water flows, and an aedicule (small building). At the eastern end stands the meta, a circular platform with three cones, each topped with an egg, marking the turning point for the chariots.
Excavation of a 4th Century AD; Roman Mosaic Floor, depicting scenes from a ‘Roman Chariot Race’ in Hippodrome, in Cyprus; found about 30km west of Nicosia, Cyprus.
Mosaic is 11m long and 4m wide, but hasn’t been fully uncovered yet. It is possibly part of a Roman Villa that may… pic.twitter.com/q36HoQ5UJm
— Archaeo – Histories (@archeohistories) September 30, 2023
Between the racing chariots there is an equestrian figure and two standing figures—one holding a whip and the other a vessel with water—possibly representing officials or attendants associated with the race.
Archaeologists say that the discovery sheds light on the affluence of ancient Cyprus. The island was historically prosperous and known for its production of copper, timber, and pottery. The presence of such an elaborate mosaic in a rural inland area suggests that wealth and cultural sophistication were more widespread across the island than had been previously understood.
Related: Ancient Inscription Unearthed at Cyprus Archaeological Site