Syrian Times 12 June, 2004 Many great mosaics which were unearthed in several archaeological sites all over the world represent Roman and Greek myths.
Mosaics excavated in Apamea are something different. They represent and depict subjects relating to natural sciences, environment, social festivals and rural activities. The most important of these mosaics are now at Khan Al- Othmani (Apamea Museum) except one known as The Hunting Mosaic which was removed from the palace of Apamean ruler and transferred to the Royal Museums in Brussels, Belgium.
Khan Al- Othmani or Apamea Mosaics Museum lies at the foot of Al- Madiq Citadel next to the ruins of the historical city of Apamea. The Khan still preserves its old form. It was built by the architect Sinan Pasha in 1931. The Khan, a rectangular building each side is 80 meters high, was used as a resting place for pilgrims heading to Mecca.
The Directorate of Antiquities in Hama assisted by Syrian specialists and architects spent more than seven years rehabilitating the Khan. In 1982 the Khan was turned into a museum for Apamea mosaics and other mosaics excavated in the governorate of Hama. Tens of important and rare mosaics including one representing Socrates and his seven wise disciples of Greece. Another important mosaic represents water nymphs in beauty competition. Other mosaics are no less important from the historical and aesthetical points of view.
A visit to Apamea Mosaics Museum will enable guests to have an unusual opportunity to experience the delights of the past. |