Iznik Travel Guide: 4-Gated Ancient Walls, Hagia Sophia and Tile Kilns

The Pearl of History that Served as the Capital of Four Civilizations: Iznik

Ancient Nikaia (Iznik), founded on the eastern shore of Lake Iznik, in the middle of the olive sea, is one of the rare cities in the world that served as the capital of the Kingdom of Bithynia, the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire and the Seljuk State. The district, which hosted the 1st and 7th Ecumenical Councils, where the basic principles of the Christian faith were determined, is now an open-air museum on the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Must-See Places in Iznik

1. Iznik Hagia Sophia Mosque (Orhan Mosque)

Located in the geometric center of the city, at the intersection of east-west and north-south main streets, the building was built in A.D. It is an early Byzantine basilica built in the 6th century. M.S. In 787, the 7th Council, the last common council of the Christian world, was held in this structure. Opus sectile floor mosaics and frescoes can be seen inside the temple, which was converted into a mosque by Orhan Gazi in 1331.

2. Iznik Lake Underwater Basilica (Sunken Church)

St. Neophytos Basilica, discovered 20 meters off the lake shore in 2014, was listed among the '10 Most Important Discoveries in the World' by the American Archaeological Institute. M.S. This 1600-year-old temple, which was submerged in the earthquake of 740, can be viewed from the observation pier on the shore.

3. Historical Iznik Walls and Istanbul Gate

The 4,970-meter-long ancient walls surrounding the city and the three-arched Istanbul Gate and Lefke Gate in the Roman triumphal arch architecture are masterpieces of military architecture with their ancient relief friezes.

4. Iznik Green Mosque and Tile Kilns Excavation Site

Built by Çandarlı Halil Pasha between 1378-1391, the Green Mosque is the symbol of early Ottoman art with its turquoise and cobalt blue zigzag tiled minaret. 15th century tile ovens are exhibited in the surrounding excavation area.

Iznik Tiles and Shopping

In Iznik, where the world's best quality quartz-containing underglaze tiles are produced, handmade plates, tiles and jewelry with traditional tulip, carnation and estuary patterns can be purchased at the Süleyman Pasha Madrasa Tile Bazaar.

Transportation and Visit

The district can be reached in 1 hour by Iznik minibuses, which depart every half hour from Bursa Eastern Bus Terminal or Yalova. All historical monuments within the district are within walking distance.