Smyrna Agora Ancient City

The old city of Izmir, “Smyrna” was established on an islet with a surface area of approximately one hundred acres, located in the northeast of the bay. In the most recent excavations, the settlement areas in İzmir were found in BC. It has been revealed that it dates back to 7000 years. As a result, every area of Izmir has a different historical trace, and each neighborhood has a different charm. Every portion of it is worth seeing, from the streets leading to the sea to the ruins. The Ancient City of Agora is the most stunning of these destinations to see.

Agora is a Greek term that means "to gather." It refers to the town square, bazaar, and marketplace, as well as a gathering spot. The Agora was known for its economic, religious, and political duties in ancient times. The art of the Agora Ancient City, on the other hand, was highly advanced. At least one Agora existed in ancient cities. There were usually two Agora in large cities. State issues were held in one of these Agoras, which were surrounded by public buildings. Trade activities were place in the other Agora.

History of Agora Ancient City

During Alexander the Great's rule in the 4th century BC, the city of Smyrna was relocated from its previous location in Bayrakli to the foothills of Pagos Hill, which is now Kadifekale. The acropolis of the city was also built on the hill. This point, which commands both the plain and the sea, was also the heart of the defense system, encircled by fortifications. The ancient city of Agora was founded during the Hellenistic period. Many of the historical objects discovered here have survived to the present day. These are the structures that Emperor Marcus Aurelius reconstructed following the earthquake of 178 BC.

Smyrna Agora was made in a rectangular shape. In the middle is a large courtyard surrounded by colonnaded galleries. During the excavations, the northern and southern stoas on the basement were unearthed. The stoa in the north was built in basilica style.

Examining the graffiti written at the time will be a fantastic experience in addition to understanding the history of a large metropolis. This location, located on the Basmane side of Konak, which is considered the hub of Izmir, is a must-see.