Archaeological excavations continue at the submerged ruins of the Church of the Holy Fathers in İznik, the historic city built on the site of ancient Nicaea, where the First Ecumenical Council convened in 325 AD. The discovery sheds new light on early Christianity and has attracted growing interest from scholars, religious leaders, and pilgrims alike.

The basilica was first discovered in 2014 beneath the waters of Lake İznik, just 20 meters from the shore. Since then, an archaeological team led by Professor Mustafa Şahin from Uludağ University has been conducting extensive underwater and wetland excavations. Recent drops in water levels have made the site more accessible, allowing for detailed exploration.

According to Professor Şahin, the Church of the Holy Fathers was built directly on the site of the First Ecumenical Council — a pivotal moment in Christian history during which the Nicene Creed was formulated, Arianism condemned, and foundational Church canons were established. The church is believed to have later been named in honor of the bishops (“Holy Fathers”) who participated in the Council.

Şahin also noted that Pope Leo XIV has expressed interest in visiting the site in 2025, coinciding with the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea. Even in the absence of a papal visit, the site has already become a growing destination for Christian pilgrims from various denominations.

Archaeologists have uncovered Christian burials surrounding the basilica. The skeletal remains are carefully documented by anthropologists and then respectfully reinterred in their original locations, with efforts made to preserve the graves’ historical integrity.

Preliminary evidence suggests the basilica may have been dedicated to Saint Neophytos and was likely destroyed in the 740 AD earthquake. Over time, the area was submerged and forgotten until its rediscovery in the 21st century.

A team of ten experts — including geologists, geophysicists, and conservators — is currently working on the site, with plans to expand to 25 members during the university break. Excavations are scheduled to continue through the end of September.

Turkish authorities and researchers intend to develop the site into an underwater museum and produce a virtual reconstruction, allowing visitors worldwide to experience the historic church — even if they cannot physically reach it.

The excavation comes as Orthodox Churches around the globe commemorate the 1700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council, a milestone that continues to shape Christian theology and unity to this day.