İznik Gölü Su Altı Bazilikası (Aziz Neophytos Bazilikası)

It is a three-aisled basilica, measuring approximately 30x19 meters and with an enclosed area of 600 square meters. It is thought to have been built in memory of Saint Neophytos. It was destroyed in the earthquake of 740 and submerged as the lake level rose in the 1250s.

The remains were noticed in 2014 through the review of aerial photographs; the first excavation was conducted in April 2016. The structure is now approximately 1.5-2 meters below the lake surface. Eighteen graves, coins, and ceramic fragments were found during excavations. It is debated whether the First Council of İznik in 325 may have been held here.

Visit note: Excavations are ongoing; the site was arranged as part of preparations for Pope Leo XIV's November 28, 2025 ceremony, and decisions were taken on expropriation and archaeological site status. Visiting conditions and fee are not stated in the sources.

The information in this listing was compiled from the following sources:

• tr.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%B0znik_Su_Alt%C4%B1_Bazilikas%C4%B1
• iznik.bel.tr/tr/sayfa/kulturel-varliklar-47
• izniktatilrehberi.com/blog/iznik-bazilikasi
• turizmgunlugu.com/2025/11/27/vatikan-devlet-baskani-papa-14-leonun-ziyareti-once

The information was verified on the date of compilation. We recommend calling the venue before your visit.

The cover image is a symbolic pattern inspired by the İznik tile tradition; it is not a photograph of the venue.