Izmir is a city that has hosted many civilizations throughout history and stands out with its rich cultural heritage. One of the most important parts of this heritage is the ancient cities located throughout the city. Each belonging to different periods and civilizations, these ancient cities offer visitors the opportunity to follow the traces of the past. Here are 10 must-see ancient cities in Izmir:

1. Ephesus Ancient City (Selcuk)

Ephesus is one of the most important metropolises of the ancient world. This city, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, attracts attention with its structures such as the Temple of Artemis, Celsus Library, the Great Theater and the Terrace Houses. In addition, the House of the Virgin Mary and the Basilica of St. Jean are among the places to visit.

2. Pergamon Ancient City (Bergama)

Bergama is one of the important centers of the Hellenistic period. Pergamon, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is famous for its Acropolis, Zeus Altar and ancient theater. Also, the Asklepion health center is located here.

3. Yeşilova Mound (Bornova)

Yeşilova Mound is the oldest known settlement in Izmir. The mound, which contains ruins from the Neolithic period, provides visitors with information about the prehistoric period. Interactive exhibitions and events are organized in the Visitor Center next to it.

4. Bayrakli Smyrna (Tepekule)

Smyrna, located in Bayraklı, is one of the first settlements of Izmir. This ancient city, which draws attention with the Temple of Athena and the ruins of the city walls, is also known as the place where Homer lived.

5. Agora Ruins

Located in the center of Izmir, Agora is a marketplace from the Roman period. Today, the area serves as an open-air museum, taking visitors back in time with its columned galleries and inscriptions.

6. Metropolis Ancient City

Metropolis means 'City of the Mother Goddess'. It is notable for its theater, bath and temple ruins from the Hellenistic and Roman periods. In addition, many mosaics and statues have been unearthed during excavations in the city.

7. Theos Ancient City

Teos is one of the important port cities of the ancient period. It is known for the ruins of the Temple of Dionysus, the agora and the theater. Also, the centuries-old olive trees in the ancient city are remarkable.

8. Ancient City of Erythrai

Located in the Ildırı village of Çeşme, Erythrai is one of the 12 cities of Ionia. It offers a historical experience to its visitors with its ancient theater, acropolis and city wall ruins.

9. Ancient City of Klazomenai

Klazomenai is an Ionian city famous for its olive oil production. It is notable for its ancient olive oil workshop, necropolis and city wall ruins. In addition, many ceramics and statues were found during the excavations in the city.

10. Ancient City of Notion

Located in the Ahmetbeyli Neighborhood of the Menderes district, Notion attracts attention with its location overlooking the sea. It offers unique views to its visitors with its Acropolis, Athena Temple and city wall ruins.

These unique ancient cities of Izmir are like an open-air museum for history and culture enthusiasts. Each belonging to a different period and civilization, these cities offer unforgettable experiences to their visitors.