Early plague evidence found at İznik Roman necropolis
Examinations on the remains of skeletons reveal what researchers described as the earliest evidence of plague identified in Anatolia. (AA photos)
Archaeological excavations at a Byzantine-era necropolis south of the Roman Theater in the northwestern province of Bursa’s İznik district have uncovered skeletal remains belonging to around 20 individuals, with examinations revealing early evidence of plague in Anatolia.
Excavation and restoration works are being carried out across an area of approximately 10 decares. Researchers are also investigating areas outside the theater’s main structure.
Excavations at the İznik Roman Theater began in the 1980s and have been conducted by a team from Dokuz Eylül University since 2016. Findings indicate that the theater site was used for different purposes during different periods.
