Travel Guide to Izmir, Turkey

Izmir is a large and famous cultural center and a beautiful resort. The city is located along the coastal line and so it is surrounded by water from one side and by high mountains with ancient forests from another one. There are many places of interest in the city as it has managed to preserve its historical look. You will also find numerous museums and theatres in Izmir, so besides tranquil rest on a beach, tourists have an opportunity to participate in various cultural events.

The Temple of Athena is considered the most valuable finding of archeologists in whole Barakly region. The temple complex includes that ruins of the protective walls that have surrounded the ancient Ionic town. The buildings were created in 9-7 centuries BC. All precious findings from the territory of excavations have been transferred to Museum of Archeology that now exhibits examples of pottery, jewelry and figuline. Tourists, who enjoy listening to stories about previous centuries, should visit Kadifekale Mountain where they will see the ruins of the old castle built during Alexander of Macedon times. There is a spacious yard in front of the castle where all visitors can enjoy mountain landscapes and azure bay.

One more facility built during the times of Alexander the Great is the market square named Agora. It was damaged severely during the earthquake, but later it was reconstructed and was kept in a perfect condition up to our days. Sirinyer aqueduct on the Meles River built during the Roman Empire times is a wonderful architectural site. If you like observing religious facilities, than Church of St. Polycarp is definitely worth visiting. The church was built in the 14th century and then reconstructed in 1620. There are mane legends and tales connected with this church that is also known as one of the oldest buildings in Izmir. Saat Kulesi Tower located on the central square of Izmir is a traditional destination for tourists. It was built in 1901 by the order of sheikh Abdulhamid and over a hundred years the tower is known as the symbol of the city.

Read more about Izmir:
Restaurants and cuisine in Izmir
'Must visit' places in Izmir
Nightlife and attractions in Izmir
Preparing for Izmir: Advices
Izmir photogallery