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….

Iznik Furnace Basilica

A site labeled Iznik Furnace marks an archeology dig for a kiln. Yet, what remains is something else. Most likely, the furnace was repurposed from an aspect of the church. The research on this site is quite limited and labeled deceptively. The Nicaea Byzantine basilica could date back to the 6th to the 8th century. It is located on Iznik’s Seyh Badrettin Street.

North Gate Basilica

Neither of these Basilicas is listed on the Byzantine Legacy Map of ancient Nicaea. At least 20 Basilicas have been found in the city of which the map lists about half of them. Here is my write-up on 20 Byzantine sites in Iznik.

Green Mosque (Yeşil Cami) – A former Byzantine Complex?

During my visit, I noticed that the mosque had what seemed to be Byzantine pillars and some ancient window frames. My studies will continue in what this location used to be. However, the building is one of the first Ottoman mosques, but what existed before this in this large complex? Did they reuse items from the Byzantine monastery that dwelt in this neighborhood?

The Ottomans established a blockade in 1301 against ancient Nicaea, and 30 years later, they finally took full control of the city. About 46 years later, this building was constructed. The work is unique, mixing Seljuk and new Ottoman ideas. The Islamic school at that time was established in a church located adjacent to this complex.

Why is Byzantine shrouded in history? We know that those who conquer can shape their own history. Have you wondered how Islam and Christianity differ? Here in this city, they have had series of conflict. Check out my writing how I Searched Below the Surface and found some amazing differences.