Major Discovery at Pompeiopolis: 2,000-Year-Old Eros Head and 105-Square-Metre Mosaic

Excavations at the ancient city of Pompeiopolis in Kastamonu have brought to light an approximately 105-square-metre floor mosaic and a nearly 2,000-year-old head of Eros.

The mosaic, made up of geometric compositions, dates to the fourth century AD and lies in the central nave of the basilica. Officials said it remains in very good condition, and conservation work on the exposed sections has been completed. Excavators have not yet uncovered the entire floor, however, and work continues on the remaining mosaic.

The Eros head was found in the basilica’s pastophorion area during the 2026 excavations. Authorities date the sculpture to the second half of the second century AD. They say it offers new information about Pompeiopolis’ artistic and cultural character during the Roman Imperial period.

The basilica’s first construction phase has also been dated to around AD 150-160. Excavations and conservation work are examining how the building changed from the Roman Imperial period into Late Antiquity, while architectural elements and mosaics are helping researchers understand the city’s urban and religious history.

The ongoing work aims to expose, document and preserve the full mosaic pavement in the central nave, while further excavation is expected to clarify the building’s architectural plan and different phases of use.