The Nicaea Pilgrimage Tour

June 10-22, 2024 ISTANBUL - NICAEA – PHRYGIA – PSIDIAN ANTIOCH - CAPPADOCIA

Welcome to an unforgettable spiritual journey: The Nicaea Pilgrimage Tour!

Embark on a remarkable seven-day adventure that will take you on a profound exploration of Christian history and faith. Join us as we delve into the heart of Nicaea, a city deeply rooted in the Christian tradition, where significant events shaped the course of Christianity as we know it today. Here the early Christians assembled to compose the Nicaean Creed, a foundational document for the Christian faith.

Our carefully crafted itinerary ensures an immersive experience, combining historical landmarks, insightful lectures, and meaningful interactions. Led by seasoned theologians and knowledgeable guides, this tour is designed to inspire, enlighten, and deepen your connection to our faith.

Highlights of the Nicaea Pilgrimage Tour:
1. Visit Ancient Churches: Walk in the footsteps of early Christians as we explore the magnificent ancient churches of Istanbul, Nicaea, Phrygia and Cappadocia. From the iconic Hagia Sophia to the awe-inspiring Church of the Holy Apostles, each site holds centuries of devotion and spiritual significance.
2. Attend Lectures by Biblical and Theological Scholars: Engage in thought-provoking discussions and gain profound insights from professors and scholars. Expand your knowledge and understanding of Christian doctrine as you engage in intellectual conversations.
3. Discover Ecumenical Council Sites: Explore the locations where the historic Ecumenical Councils took place, shaping the early Christian Church. Stand in the very spots where crucial decisions were made, paving the way for the development of Christian theology.
4. Explore Iconic Landmarks: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Istanbul, Nicaea and Cappadocia as we venture beyond the religious sites. From the grandeur of ancient city walls to the vibrant local markets, experience the captivating blend of history and everyday life.
5. Forge Lasting Connections: Connect with fellow pilgrims from around the world who share a common passion for their faith. Engage in meaningful conversations, exchange spiritual insights, and create friendships that may last a lifetime.

Join us on this extraordinary journey as we retrace the footsteps of early Christians, unravel the mysteries of Christian history, and deepen our spiritual connection. The Nicaea Pilgrimage Tour promises to be a life-transforming experience that will leave you with a renewed sense of faith and a deeper understanding of Christianity.
Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today and embark on this remarkable spiritual odyssey.

Dr. Mark Robin FairchildHuntington University

Itinerary Details Hosts & Guide Policies Contact Useful Information

Jun 10 Mon Depart USA (own flights or, ask for the air fares)

Jun 11 Tue Arrive Istanbul Airport – Meet and transfer to the hotel.

Jun 12 Wed Istanbul; Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia, Archaeology Museum, St Irene Church

Jun 13 Thu Istanbul; Spice Bazaar, Bosphorus Boat – Drive Nicaea - Iznik

Jun 14 Fri Nicaea; Istanbul Gate, Lefke Gate, New City Gate, Ayasofya Church/Mosque – Iznik

Jun 15 Sat Nicaea; Underwater Basilica, meet the local archaeologist Mustafa Bey, City Walls – Iznik

Jun 16 Sun Phrygia Valley, Midas City – Kutahya

Jun 17 Mon Phrygia – Ayazin - Afyon Museum - Afyon

Jun 18 Tue Psidian Antioch – Konya (Iconium)

Jun 19 Wed Konya – Sile Church – monastic Zelve Valley - Cappadocia

Jun 20 Thu Cappadocia; Goreme Open Air Museum, Citadel of Uchisar, Underground City

Jun 21 Fri Cappadocia; optional Hot Air Balloon Trip in early morning, Ihlara Valley and Soganli Village

Jun 22 Sat Transfer to Kayseri Airport - End of our services

Including

• 2 Nights at 4 star hotel in Istanbul
• 3 Nights at 4 star hotel in Iznik
• 1 Night at 4 star hotel in Kutahya
• 1 Night at 4 star hotel in Afyon
• 1 Night at 4 star hotel in Konya
• 3 Nights at 4 star hotel in Cappadocia
• Daily breakfasts
• 11 Dinners
• Arrival and departure airport transfers
• All entry fees to the sites and museums
• Lectures by Dr Mark Fairchild
• English speaking licensed tour guide
• All entry fees to the sites and museums
• Bosphorus Boat Tour
• Transportation by private Midibus or Bus
• Service charges and local taxes
• Tips to the tour guide and driver

Excluding

• All flights (you have to arrive Istanbul Airport on June 11 and depart Kayseri
airport on June 22)
• Lunches and drinks
• Turkish Visa fee to be obtained online before arrival www.evisa.gov.tr
• All personal expenses

Including

Excluding

Hosts

Dr. Mark Robin Fairchild
Huntington University

Dr. Fairchild received his Ph.D. in New Testament Studies from Drew University. He also completed Ph.D. coursework at Union Theological Seminary (NY) and Princeton Theological Seminary. Dr. Fairchild has twice received research grants from the National Endowment for the Humanities. In 1992, he collaborated with 11 other scholars at Yeshiva University exploring the Greek encounter with Judaism during the Hellenistic Period. In 2002, he joined 20 other scholars at the University of Chicago to investigate societal transformations and the legitimization of power in the early Islamic states.

Fairchild’s recent discovery of two previously unknown ancient synagogues in Turkey (including the world’s oldest known synagogue) was published in the Biblical Archaeology Review in 2012. Research at this ancient synagogue was also published in the Journal of Ancient Judaism in 2014. The Biblical Archaeology Review also published Fairchild’s research on St. Paul’s first mission from Perga to Antioch (2013) and another article on the biblical city of Laodicea (2017). Fairchild’s book on Christian Origins in Ephesus and Asia Minor (originally published in 2015) has been expanded and a second edition is currently available with Hendrickson Publishers (2017).

Dr. Fairchild is currently the Program Director for the Ephesus Meeting, an academic conference at the ancient site of Ephesus in Turkey. He annually travels to Turkey, Greece, Israel, Egypt and Jordan for research and to conduct study tours.

• $200 Per Person DEPOSIT : FEBRUARY 15, 2023
• FULL (BALANCE) PAYMENT : MARCH 15, 2023
Cancellation Penalty:
– 90–60 days prior to departure : No Penalty
– 59–45 days prior to departure : 25%
– 44–30 days prior to departure : 50%
– 29–15 days prior to departure : 75%
– 14 days & After : No refund

*Please email to info@tutkutours.com and ask for TUTKU’ bank account details if you wish to pay with bank wire transfer.

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