Unique, Roman-era mosaic of Hercules' Labors to go to museum

NICOSIA, Cyprus (AP) - Cyprus' commerce minister says a unique Roman-era mosaic depicting Hercules' Labors will be transferred to a new, dedicated wing of a museum in Larnaca, the coastal town where crews accidentally discovered it while working on the sewage system.

Marios Demetriades said after visiting the site Thursday that the 19 meter by 7 meter (62 foot by 23 foot) mosaic cannot stay in place because it would incur damage from water and the elements.

Antiquities Department Chief Marina Solomidou-Ieronymidou said the mosaic appears to be part of a baths complex. She said the mosaic has five sections but only two have been fully uncovered. Crews may have to encroach on private property to unearth more of the complex.

The Mediterranean island was under Roman control from 31 B.C. to the 4th century A.D.