Lake Iznik recedes, historical ruins emerge

With the drop in water levels at Lake Iznik in the Iznik district of Bursa, structural remains located very close to the shore, which are considered to potentially be a second basilica, have been captured from the air. The remains, which were noticed during a drone flight by an Ihlas News Agency reporter, have drawn attention to the region following initial examinations.

It was observed that the remains, which became distinct as the lake surface receded, are located very close to the beach along the Iznik coastline. The team that noticed the structure, which became fully visible as the water receded, expressed excitement at the details in the footage.

AREA DECLARED A PROTECTED SITE IN 2017

According to information obtained, the area where the remains are located was declared a 1st-degree archaeological site by the Museum Directorate in 2017. Former Iznik Museum Director Taylan Sevil, who evaluated the subject, stated that the structural remains could belong to a religious building and expressed that the possibility of a second basilica is strong.

"IT MAY HAVE BEEN SUBMERGED BY AN EARTHQUAKE"

Sevil stated that the drop in the water level of Lake Iznik has allowed ancient ruins to become visible again, noting that scientific studies have revealed that major earthquakes and ground subsidence occurred in the region in 1045 and 1065 AD. Stating that examinations conducted in London also support these findings, Sevil made the following assessment:

"We believe that these remains, located near the existing basilica, may have been buried when a piece of land that was once above the lake was submerged as a result of an earthquake and subsidence. The plan and dimensions of the structure strengthen the possibility that it is a large-scale religious building."

LOCATION NEAR ANCIENT SETTLEMENTS AND PORTS

Sevil also pointed out that the newly discovered remains are located in a region that experienced intense activity during the Roman and Byzantine periods. The proximity of the structure to ancient port ruins also increases the historical importance of the region.

Experts state that archaeological excavations and scientific research must be initiated to confirm whether the remains truly belong to a second basilica. This development has once again brought to the agenda that Lake Iznik is home to a multi-layered cultural heritage in addition to its natural features.