Aidesim Mosaic Basilica is an archaeological site in Kilis province. The term basilica refers to a rectangular church divided into three halls by two rows of columns, a king’s palace, or a Roman court. The Aidesim Mosaic Basilica is a Roman monument in Kilis, belonging to the Early Christian period, and is dated to the 6th century AD. Covering an area of approximately 800 square meters, the basilica has mosaic decorations reflecting the characteristics of the early Byzantine period.

^{Aidesim Mosaic Basilica (Türkiye Culture Portal)}

Location and Structural Properties

The Aidesim Mosaic Basilica is located 200 meters southwest of Oylum Höyük. In accordance with the geological structure and soil type of the region, basalt, a volcanic rock, and limestone were used as building materials. These two types of rocks are the most commonly used solid building materials in the region. The entrance of the basilica, which has a long rectangular plan, is from the west, and the interior is divided into three naves with two rows of columns.

Excavations and Mosaics

Excavations at the Aidesim Mosaic Basilica began in the 1990s. In 1999, a part of the basilica was uncovered, and in 2004 and 2006, almost the entire structure was revealed. As a result of the excavations, a large number of Roman and medieval coins, column bases, and various archaeological artifacts were unearthed. The floor mosaic contains red, white, brown, gray, and black stones with floral motifs, geometric motifs such as intersecting circles, lozenge motifs, square and zigzag motifs, and intricate decorations in the form of Maltese crosses. These mosaics reflect the characteristics of the Early Byzantine Period.

Conservation Works

In order to prevent damage to the mosaics, covering works started in 2015 and were completed in 2017. The provisional acceptance of the Aidesim Mosaic Basilica Site Protection and Landscaping Project was made on August 16, 2017.