Rare Good Shepherd Fresco Discovered in İznik: Early Christian Art in Anatolia

Historic Discovery in İznik: Rare Early Christian Good Shepherd Fresco Unearthed

Archaeologists in İznik, Bursa, have uncovered a 3rd-century fresco in a hypogeum (underground tomb) at the Hisardere Necropolis, widely interpreted as part of early Christian artistic tradition featuring the Good Shepherd motif. The fresco may be the only example of its kind discovered in Anatolia. Excavations are led by the İznik Museum Directorate with the approval of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and a team of academic experts.

The fresco depicts a young, beardless figure carrying a lamb on the shoulders — a common symbol in early Christian art representing the Good Shepherd, an archetype of guidance, protection, and care. Scholars note that while the figure cannot be definitively identified as Jesus, it clearly belongs to the visual language of early Christian iconography.

Archaeological and Artistic Significance

The fresco, located on the north wall of the tomb, and the well-preserved structural features indicate that Hisardere Necropolis was used between the 2nd and 5th centuries by a wide social spectrum. The walls and ceiling are decorated with birds, plant motifs, and human figures, reflecting a rich iconographic program. Experts emphasize that this work contributes important evidence of early Christian art in Anatolia and illustrates the transition from pagan to Christian visual traditions.

© Ignat Kushnarev

Historical Context and Global Interest

The discovery connects to İznik’s history as ancient Nicaea, particularly the 325 CE First Council of Nicaea, which shaped early Christian theology and formalized the Nicene Creed.

The fresco also drew international attention during Pope Leo XIV’s visit to İznik in late 2025, when a reproduction was presented to the Pope by Türkiye’s President, underscoring the cultural and diplomatic significance of early Christian heritage.

A Window into Anatolia’s Early Christian Heritage

This fresco is a rare and valuable example of early Christian art in Anatolia. Ongoing studies and scientific analyses will help clarify its historical context and its role in the evolution of early Christian iconography.