Polish Archaeology in the Mediterranean (8.1996(1997))

Phot. 1. Basylica - general view. Photo by T. Szmagier.
Most of the mosaics are geometric. A composition of
polychrome lozenges and squares enclosed in a border of leaves
was found in the southern aisle. A panel in the western part of the
nave contained geometrical figures concentrically arranged around
a bird representation in the centre. Another mosaic panel,
originally surrounded by a chancel screen, marked the space that
was reserved for the clergy in front of the bema. Representations
of birds and a variety of vessels filled the spaces between the
columns. The mosaic in the sanctuary comprised a central panel
decorated with a magnificent depiction of a lioness, surrounded by
water-birds, fish, baskets brimming with bunches of grapes
(Phot. 2). The iconography of the mosaics reveals many common
features with the other churches of the Byzantine province of
Phoenicia, the complexes in Zahrani and Ghine constituting good
examples.

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