It is an impressive mosaic floor, which stands out both for its good condition and for the high quality of its construction and can be dated to the first half of the 4th c. AD, that came to light during an excavation at the site of Piatkia, in Akaki, Nicosia Province in 2015.
The excavation was carried out under the supervision of the Archaeological Officer, Dr. Phryni Hatzichristofi, with the help of the archaeologist, Dr. Vasiliki Lysandrou, and lasted nine weeks.
According to the announcement of the Department of Antiquities of Cyprus, during the first excavation period, in 2014, building remains were found at a minimum depth below the ground. A huge tank measuring 10 × 14 m occupies a special place in the area. to mark the eastern end of the building, as well as four parallel carvings on the natural rock.
Chariot race representation
The excavation so far has revealed a part of the mosaic, which depicts a representation of chariot races in progress inside a racecourse and in rich geometric decoration. The virtual scene includes tethrips, in which the driver is depicted standing, fighting around the spina.
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 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 new important data for this period in Cyprus and adds to our knowledge of the use of mosaic floors on the island.
