Rare 3rd-Century 'Good Shepherd' Fresco Uncovered in Iznik, Turkey

Historic Discovery in Ancient Nicaea

Archaeologists conducting excavations at the Hisardere Necropolis in Iznik, Turkey, have announced the discovery of a remarkably preserved 3rd-century fresco. The artwork, found within an underground chamber tomb, depicts Jesus as the 'Good Shepherd,' a motif considered exceptionally rare for the Anatolian region. This find is hailed as one of the most significant from Anatolia's early Christian era, shedding new light on the spread of Christianity and artistic traditions during that period.

The discovery was made in August during ongoing fieldwork. Iznik, historically known as Nicaea, holds immense importance in Christian history as the site of the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, where the Nicene Creed was adopted.

Details of the 'Good Shepherd' Depiction

The fresco portrays a youthful, clean-shaven Jesus, dressed in a toga and carrying a goat across his shoulders. This representation, with its distinctly Roman attributes, is noted by researchers as a rare instance in Anatolia. Before the cross became the universal symbol of Christianity, the 'Good Shepherd' motif was crucial in conveying themes of protection, salvation, and divine guidance.

Lead archaeologist Dr. Gülşen Kutbay described the artwork as 'possibly the only example of its kind in Anatolia,' highlighting its exceptional value. The well-preserved nature of the fresco provides archaeologists with a unique opportunity to study late Roman funerary art in its original context.

The Tomb and Its Contents

The fresco adorns the north wall of a hypogeum, an underground chamber tomb dating back to the 3rd century AD, a time when Christians faced widespread persecution within the Roman Empire. While the southern wall of the tomb suffered damage, the east, west, and north walls, along with the ceiling, remain in almost perfect condition.

The tomb's interior also featured a kline, a funerary bed made of square terracotta plaques where the deceased were placed. Beyond the central 'Good Shepherd' image, the walls and ceiling are richly decorated with:

• Bird and plant motifs
• Portraits of noble men and women, accompanied by slave attendants

Archaeologist Eren Erten Ertem of the Iznik Museum noted that these frescoes illustrate 'a transition from late paganism to early Christianity, depicting the deceased being sent off to the afterlife in a positive and fitting manner.' The excavation also uncovered the skeletons of five individuals, including two young adults and a 6-month-old infant.

Archaeological Team and Broader Context

The excavation team operates under the direction of Tolga Koparal, Director of the Iznik Museum, with scientific coordination provided by Prof. Dr. Aygün Ekin Meriç of Dokuz Eylül University. The Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism granted permission for the ongoing work.

The discovery coincides with a recent visit by Pope Leo XIV to Iznik, marking the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea. During this visit, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan presented the Pope with a tile painting inspired by the newly found fresco, underscoring the find's cultural and historical significance.