Izmir is located 85km east of Çeşme and is the third-largest city in the country. It enjoys a picturesque setting with a natural harbour surrounded by mountains. The city is on the eastern side of the Gulf of Izmir and spans a large area with diverse geographical features, including coastal plains, hills, and valleys.
Its strategic coastal location has historically made it an important port city. As of the latest estimates, İzmir has a population of over 4 million, making it the third-most populous city in Tūrkiye after Istanbul and Ankara. The population is diverse, with a mix of ethnic groups and many expatriates. The city has a young and dynamic demographic profile, with a large student population due to the presence of several major universities.
Izmir – Table of Contents
Brief History of İzmir
The earliest settlements in the area date back to around 6500 B.C. during the Neolithic period. By the Bronze Age, Smyrna became an important centre within the region. Around 1000 B.C., Aeolian Greeks settled, later followed by Ionian Greeks. Smyrna became a significant city in the Ionian League, a confederation of twelve cities. In the 7th century B.C., Smyrna was conquered by the Lydians under King Alyattes.
The city later came under Persian control following the conquests of Cyrus the Great in the mid-6th century B.C. Alexander the Great captured Smyrna in 334 B.C., after which it underwent significant redevelopment. The city was moved and rebuilt on a new site (modern-day Kadifekale) during the Hellenistic period. Smyrna thrived under Roman rule starting in 133 B.C., becoming an important centre for trade and culture. The city was known for its beauty, with significant architectural developments, including an agora, theatres, and temples.
Smyrna was one of the Seven Churches of Asia mentioned in the Book of Revelation, reflecting its early Christian community. It remained prosperous under Byzantine rule, though it suffered several earthquakes and attacks, including by the Arabs in the 7th century.
1424 Smyrna was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire under Sultan Murad II. The city continued to be a crucial port and trading hub, benefiting from the relative stability of the Ottoman administration. İzmir grew significantly between the 17th and 19th centuries, attracting a diverse population, including Greeks, Armenians, Jews, Levantines, and Turks. It became one of the empire’s most cosmopolitan cities, known for its bustling port and vibrant commercial activity.
Following World War I and the defeat of the Ottoman Empire, İzmir was occupied by Greek forces in 1919 as part of the Greco-Turkish War. The city was recaptured by Turkish forces under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in September 1922, during which a significant portion of the city was destroyed in the Great Fire of Smyrna. After establishing the Republic of Turkey in 1923, İzmir was rebuilt and modernised. The city experienced rapid growth and industrialisation throughout the 20th century, becoming a major economic and cultural centre in modern Türkiye. Today, İzmir is Türkiye’s third-largest city, known for its vibrant culture, historical sites, and economic significance.
Key Attractions of İzmir
İzmir is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful coastal scenery. Key attractions include Konak Square, the city’s heart, featuring the iconic İzmir Clock Tower and the historic Konak Mosque. Kemeralti Bazaar: A bustling market area with shops, cafes, and historical sites. Kadifekale: An ancient fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the gulf. Agora of Smyrna: Ruins of an ancient Roman marketplace, providing a glimpse into the city’s past. Kordon: A scenic promenade along the waterfront, perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying the sunset.
Links on LikeCesme.com for İzmir
See the links below for further information on key attractions in İzmir:
İzmir on Social Media
İzmir Metropolitan Municipality – Municipality Portal and Visit İzmir English websites
Ministry of Culture & Tourism – İzmir Provincial Directorate of Culture & Tourism English Website
GoTürkiye – İzmir GoTürkiye English Website
İzmir Chamber of Commerce – İzmir Tourism English Website