Türkiye’s Iznik prepares for historic Christian mass on 1700th anniversary of First Council
An aerial view of preparations for a planned religious ceremony around the submerged basilica ruins, discovered in 2014 in Lake Iznik, Bursa, Türkiye, believed to have been built in honor of Saint Neophytos, April 22, 2025. (AA Photo)
Türkiye’s northwestern district of Iznik, historically known as Nicaea, is preparing for a significant religious event to mark the 1700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea — the foundational Christian gathering convened by Roman Emperor Constantine I in A.D. 325.
Local officials are pushing ahead with preparations for a mass to be held near the remains of a submerged basilica discovered in 2014 just off the shores of Lake Iznik.
The basilica, believed to be dedicated to Saint Neophytos, sits under 1.5 to 2 meters of water, 20 meters from the lake’s edge.
Submerged basilica becomes center of global Christian focus
Plans are underway to conduct a ceremonial mass at the site, with a 42-square-meter platform being constructed next to the ruins. A second platform, capable of hosting 2,000 special guests, is also being built for a larger ceremony expected to be broadcast globally.
“These works are continuing under the auspices of our Ministry of Culture and Tourism and are progressing rapidly. Everything will be completed within 20 days,” said Iznik Mayor Kagan Mehmet Usta. “Iznik is a deeply significant site for the Christian world.”
Vatican signals interest, but Pope Francis’ passing clouds schedule
In 2024, Pope Francis expressed a strong desire to visit Iznik for the anniversary. However, his recent passing has left uncertainty surrounding the event. Türkiye Today had contacted the Press Office of the Holy See shortly before the Pope’s death to ask about the trip’s status.
The Vatican responded: “The Pope has expressed his intention to go, but there has been no official announcement, so at present we have no considerations to share.”
Now, with the papal seat vacant and a new pope yet to be elected, plans for the visit remain in limbo.
Historic site gains momentum in faith tourism
Iznik has long held a central role in Christian history. It hosted the First Council of Nicaea, where foundational doctrines were established—including the original 20 articles of the Nicene Creed, which remain a cornerstone of Christian belief. Even the date of Easter was determined in this ancient town.
“After Pope Francis‘ statements, there has been a marked increase in faith tourism to Iznik. We are seeing a rise in visitors from religious groups worldwide,” said Usta.
Türkiye’s hidden religious gem eyes global spotlight
With support from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Bursa Governor’s Office, Iznik is positioning itself as one of Türkiye’s top destinations for faith-based tourism.
Usta noted the town’s strategic importance: “Iznik is one of the pilgrimage centers of Christianity. If we can attract even 10% of the global Christian population, that’s 300 million people. This would be significant not just for Iznik, but for Bursa and all of Türkiye.”
Awaiting the new pope’s first destination
Usta expressed hope that the newly elected pope will prioritize Iznik as his first international visit. “We are ready. We are continuing our preparations as if the new pope will visit in May. Our hope is that his first prayer as spiritual leader will be here, by the submerged basilica.”
