Uncovering a 1500-Year-Old Byzantine Treasure: Stained Glass and Mosaics of Harran Cathedral

Harran, located in current Türkiye, is one of the oldest cities in the world, mentioned in Sumerian and biblical texts. Carrefour of civilizations, it was a major religious and intellectual center, especially under the Byzantine Empire. Today, excavations by Harran University, under the direction of Professor Mehmet Önal, reveal exceptional elements of his past.

Fragments of colored stained glass and mosaics dating from the 5th century were uncovered in the ruins of its cathedral. These discoveries, among the oldest of the genre in the region, shed new light on Byzantine religious architecture and on Christian influence in this city with millennial history. They also raise questions about the ornamentation and the role of this monumental cathedral, today being excavated.

Harran, a site steeped in history

Harran is located in the province of şanlıurfa in Türkiye. This major archaeological site is recognized for its history dating back to several millennia. Mentioned in ancient texts, it was a strategic center for various civilizations, notably the Sumerians, the Assyrians, the Romans and the Byzantines. Registered on the UNESCO World Heritage Indicative List, it retains the traces of a rich religious and intellectual past. Among its most remarkable buildings, Harran cathedral is distinguished by its imposing size.

For the Hurriet Daily NewsProfessor Mehmet Önal explains that the building exceeds 50 meters in length. This makes it the largest Christian structure in the region. Well beyond a simple basilica. Its discovery makes it possible to better understand the importance of Christianity in this multicultural city.

The rare stained glass fragments of Harran cathedral. © AA

The current excavations have made it possible to identify several architectural elements which testify to the richness of this construction. Located about 200 meters north of the Great Ulu Mosque of Harran, the cathedral has unusual characteristics for the time. Fragments of finely carved columns have been uncovered, illustrating a sophisticated craft work. One of the most remarkable aspects is the presence of three doors oriented north. It is a rare arrangement in Byzantine religious buildings. These elements confirm the particular status of the cathedral and suggest a distinct architectural organization. Perhaps influenced by local traditions or by a desire to adapt to the constraints of the site.

Ancient stained glass and unique mosaics

Among the most striking discoveries are the fragments of colored stained glass. These pieces of glass, dyed in blue, green and purple, once integrated into the windows of the monument. Just like today, they filtered daylight to illuminate the interior with vibrant nuances. According to Professor Mehmet Önal, this luminous staging participated in the spiritual experience of the faithful. It created a solemn atmosphere conducive to contemplation. This discovery is particularly significant. Indeed, it represents one of the first attested examples of the use of stained glass in the region. This suggests that sophisticated artistic techniques were already under control from the 5th century. These stained glass thus constitute precious evidence of the development of architectural ornamentation in Byzantine religious buildings. This art will reach its peak several centuries later in European cathedrals.

© AA

In parallel, archaeologists have uncovered tesselles of golden mosaics. They once covered the walls, arcs and vaults of the cathedral. These tiny fragments of glass and stone, finely worked and assembled, also testify to the exceptional level of decoration which characterized this building. Their presence indicates that the cathedral was not only distinguished by its architectural magnitude. Its luxurious ornamentation had to reflect the greatness of the place of worship. “” We also hope to discover mosaics on the ground, and perhaps even a representation of the Prophet Abraham, given the importance of Harran in Abrahamic traditions Adds Professor Önal. If such a representation was confirmed, it would offer an unprecedented iconographic element on the role of Harran in the development of religious accounts. It would strengthen the hypothesis of an important cultural influence between the different monotheistic traditions of the time.

A renewed look at the history of the region and Harran

The recent excavations carried out on the Harran cathedral site are not limited to the discovery of stained glass and mosaics. Archaeologists have also uncovered a series of glass objects of great finesse. They testify to the refinement and liturgical practices of Byzantine Christians who frequented this building. Among these artefacts, several richly decorated bottles were discovered. According to the researchers, these containers were probably used for religious rituals, especially for baptism and the conservation of holy water. The care taken in their manufacture, with finely chiseled patterns and worked forms seems to attest to this sacred use.

© AA

All of the discoveries also provides new information on the liturgical objects used by the first Christian communities of Harran. The excavations also allow us to understand religious practices that punctuated the life of believers at that time. We understand better the role of primitive Christianity in the region and the influence it exerted on architecture and sacred art. We see a little more precisely the history of this city. A city, a true crossroads of religious and cultural exchanges for centuries.

An archaeological treasure to preserve for Harran

The exploration of the site is part of a broader framework for preserving the Turkish historical heritage. Current excavations are part of the national project “inheritance for the future”. It is an initiative of the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism aimed at supporting and promoting archaeological research. This program aims to deepen knowledge on major sites like Harran, and to enhance these discoveries with the general public.

Once the excavations are finished, the authorities will restore the cathedral to restore the building part of its original radiance and make it accessible to visitors. The objective is to make this site a living place of memory. Christian history in the region can be better understood and appreciated. By opening this cathedral restored to the public, the authorities also hope to stimulate cultural tourism and strengthen international interest in the Byzantine heritage of Turkey.