Ismir

Ismir

The original city of Ismir was established in the third millenium B.C., and at that time shared with Troy the most advanced culture in Western Anatolia. By 1500 B.C. it had fallen under the influence of Central Anatolia's Hittite Empire.

In the first millenium B.C., Ismir, then known as Smyrna, ranked as one of the important cities of the Ionian Federation; during this period it is believed that Homer lived here.

Where is it?

Beautiful Ismir, the Pearl of the Aegean, is Turkey's third largest city and second most important port. Located on the Aegean coast it is a city of palm-lined promenades, avenues and green parks set in sweeping curves along a circular bay, Izmir has an exceptionally mild climate and many fine hotels. The city is a busy commercial and industrial center as well as the gateway to the Aegean Region.

An excursion from Istanbul to the coastal area will likely start here because it is large city with a good airport and excellent coach/car renatal facilities

What to do and see:

Saat Kulesi (the Clock Tower) is the symbol of Ismir. It stands in Konak Square in the heart of the city and was gift from the Sultan Abdulhamid, built in 1901, its elaborate ornamentation exemplifies the late-Ottoman style.

In the center of Cumhuriyet Meydani, or Republic Square, stands the Ataturk Monument, an impressive statue of Ataturk sitting on horse and facing the sea. Erected in 1933, the Monument commemorates the liberation of the city by the Turkish forces.

Standing in Karsiyaka, The Flying Dolphins Monument symbolizes friendship and brotherhood.