Archaeologists working in Northern Greece have uncovered a new part of the spectacular mosaic at the Roman baths in Plotinopolis, Didymoteicho.
The stunningly colorful piece conveys an ocean theme, and includes the depiction of sea centaurs, dolphins, cupids, and sea-horses.
The newly uncovered section of the mosaic, which represents 90 square meters out of a total of 140 square meters, is made of glass and is surrounded by tendrils and ivy leaves, which was a sign of honor to the Greek god Dionysus.
The west side of the central scene depicts a number of sea creatures, along with a young Evros, son of the king of Thrace Kassandros, emerging from the water. A cupid can be seen holding a sea-horse, while another appears to be thinking. The entire piece is framed by panels decorated with birds, tree branches, and geometrical patterns.
It dates back to the second half of the 2nd century AD and the beginning of the 3rd century AD. It was part of a triclinium — a formal dining room with three beds — and a public Roman bath (which would probably explain the sea theme).
Plotinopolis was a Roman city founded by Emperor Trajan in the early 2nd century and named after his wife, Pompeia Plotina. It later became one of the most important towns in Thrace.
