Izmir Agora
Located in the Konak district of Izmir, the Izmir Agora is an archaeological treasure that brings together the spirit of the past with the city of today. Used as the center of the ancient city of Smyrna, this area was the heart of not only trade but also politics, religion and social life. The stone structures that remain standing today bear the resistance of centuries and the traces of civilizations.
Foundation and the Roman Period
The foundations of the Agora were laid in the 4th century BC. Built as the state agora of Smyrna, the structure was rebuilt with the support of Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius after a major earthquake in 178 AD. This restoration brought columns, porticos and monumental arches bearing traces of Roman architecture to the agora.
The Social Center of the Ancient City
The agora was like the heart of the city in ancient times. Merchants exhibited their goods, politicians gave speeches and the public carried out their daily business here. Inside the structure are the remains of a basilica, shops, water channels and inscriptions. The vaulted galleries in the basement, in particular, reveal the engineering skills of the period.
From the Ottomans to the Present
During the Ottoman period, the area where the Agora is located was used as a cemetery and prayer area for a while. Archaeological excavations began in 1932 and have continued intermittently until today. Today, the site serves as a history laboratory open to both academic research and visitors.
UNESCO and Modern Touches
Izmir Agora was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Temporary List in 2020 as 'Izmir Historical Port City'. The 700-meter walking path, completed in October 2023, provided the site with a modern circulation infrastructure. Visitors can now explore the Agora more closely, with regular routes.
This heart of ancient Smyrna gives today's Izmir not only history but also identity, depth and a sense of belonging. Visiting the Izmir Agora is not just seeing the stone structures; it is like hearing a story that is thousands of years old.
'Agoras are not only the centers of trade, but also of thought and life.'
If you really want to get to know Izmir, definitely include Agora in your route. The stones under your steps here will make you feel the breath of the past.