İZMİR

İzmir is Turkey’s third largest city, home to its second busiest port and located in the mid-western part of the Aegean region. It is known as the pearl of the Aegean and is symbolised by the historical clock tower which is found in Konak, in the centre of the city.

İzmir is a city where you can experience all the advantages of living in a big, modern city and yet have easy access to all the small touristic resorts of the Aegean on your doorstep. In the following pages, you will find practical information that will introduce you to the life in İzmir.

Although it lies in Asia, İzmir has always been inspired by the west – which has resulted in the unique cosmopolitan atmosphere that it boasts today. The gleaming buildings, sophisticated shopping districts, picturesque old quarters, magnificent agora and citadel, all overlook the blue waters of the Aegean Sea.

Interesting Facts About İzmir

• İzmir was founded at least 5000 years ago.

• The poet Homer, from the 9th century B.C. and author of the Iliad and the Odyssey, was born in

İzmir.

• One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World the Temple of Artemis, can be found at Ephesus.

• Parchment paper was first invented in Pergamon to the north of İzmir.

• The earliest temple dedicated to the goddess Athena was constructed in İzmir.

• The first church dedicated to the Virgin Mary was built at Ephesus. She spent her last days in Selçuk, at what is now the Virgin Mary’s House.

• St. John wrote the gospels of the Bible at Ephesus and later died there.

• Cleopatra and Anthony spent the winter of the year 188 in Ephesus.

• Famous singer Dario Moreno lived in İzmir.