Mosaic in the Church of the Apostles in Madaba, Jordan.

© Simone Crespiatico/Shutterstock

Church of the Apostles

Madaba


This insignificant-looking church contains a remarkable mosaic dedicated to the Twelve Apostles. The embroidery-like mosaic was created in AD 568 and is one of the few instances where the name of the craftsman (Salomios) is included. The central portion shows Thalassa, a female personification of the sea, surrounded by fish and slippery marine creatures. Native animals, birds, flowers, fruit and cherubic faces decorate the corners.


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