Türkiye prepares Iznik basilica for Pope's first foreign visit

Turkish authorities are preparing a submerged ancient basilica in Lake Iznik for what will be Pope Leo XIV's first international visit since assuming the papacy. The underwater archaeological site in northwestern Türkiye's Bursa province is believed to host the remains where Christianity's First Council of Nicaea convened in 325 AD.

Historical Significance and Preparation Efforts

The basilica, discovered eleven years ago approximately 20 meters from the lake shore, measures 20 by 40 meters and represents Iznik's largest known church structure. Mustafa Sahin of Bursa Uludag University leads a 60-member team of archaeologists and specialists working under Turkish Ministry of Culture authorization to prepare the site for the Pope's scheduled November 28-30 visit, focusing on presentation and exhibition arrangements.

Archaeological Importance and Christian Heritage

Professor Sahin identified the structure as the long-sought Church of the Holy Fathers, previously referenced in Christian historical sources but never physically confirmed until its underwater discovery. "Even a single stone here holds great meaning for Christians," Sahin noted, emphasizing the site's inherent significance for Christian pilgrimage and faith tourism without requiring extensive construction.

Structural History and Conservation

The basilica originated as a chapel honoring Saint Neophytos before being destroyed by an earthquake in 358 AD and reconstructed after 380 AD. Archaeological work has uncovered 37 graves at the location, with many carefully restored and reinterred in their original positions to maintain historical authenticity while ensuring their preservation for visitor observation.