Early Byzantine Mosaics in The Middle East - Lebanon

Lebanon

As part of ancient Syria, present-day Lebanon shared the same great tradition in Roman and Byzantine mosaic art as neighbouring areas. In the recent past many important finds were brought to light in cities and churches all over the country. An important Byzantine mosaic collection was established in Beiteddine Palace, mostly from discoveries in the coastal town of Jiyyeh (ancient Porphyrion). They date from the 5-6th centuries. The designs are often geometric and stylized but there are also interesting depictions animals, including leopards, gazelles, lions, hares and birds, as well as religious figures.

A big geometric mosaic floor was unearthed in the Church of St John the Baptist in Byblos.

• Fifth c. Mosaic of a leopard at the Beiteddine Palace.

• Fifth c. Mosaic of the goddess Ktisis (KTICIC) at the Beiteddine Palace.

• Fifth c. Mosaic of a bull and a lion at the Beiteddine Palace.

• Fifth c. Mosaic of two doves and a swastika at the Beiteddine Palace.