The sunken basilica in Iznik has recently been set up as a tourist site with an observation deck and a small museum. Here is what is available on a visit there. As of September 2025, the museum has not opened, so this is a preview of what is available when it opens.
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Byzantine History found in the Iznik Museums
In the city of Iznik (Nicaea), several museums are worth visiting, each showcasing some Byzantine history. Let’s take a look at what can be found in these Iznik Museums.
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Finding the 20 Byzantine Churches and Chapels of Nicaea
I heard one tour historian say there were at least 20 churches in this ancient city.[1] That grabbed my attention immediately. Could a single city really have been home to so many sacred spaces? Curiosity took over—and I started digging. Let’s try to map them out, for I found no list of these places. Here are my conclusions about these former churches and chapels.
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The Ancient Nicaea Walls Today speak History
The ancient walls and numerous ruins provide evidence of the prosperous Byzantine community in Nicaea. The walls also give voice to what took place over 1400 years ago. Let’s listen to the walls.
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Discovering the North Gate Basilica in Iznik – Nicaea
During the later Byzantine period, a basilica was constructed using the northern wall area of the ancient gate in Nicaea. The apse and mosaics give insight into the worship space.
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Wow! I found a Nicaea Basilica among the Ruins
While filming a supposed Iznik furnace, I discovered something unexpected. As I edited the video, I realized that something did not fit into the idea of a furnace….
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