Approximately 3.8 million people inhabit greater Izmir, Turkeys' third largest city. Over 1.1 million tourists visit the city annually to see the historic city center as well as area archeological sites. Both domestic and international airlines serve Adnan Menderer International Airport and offer flights to 53 destinations in 17 countries. Both bus and rail connect the city to other points in Turkey, including a rail-ferry combination to Istanbul. A modern metro and bus system provides transportation within the city.
Izmir faces the Aegean Sea and is Turkey's second largest port after Istanbul. It is approximately 200 miles southwest of Istanbul and 325 miles west of Ankara, Turkey's capital. Located in the Aegean coast land--one of Turkeys' four distinct regions--Izmir enjoys a Mediterranean climate. The average July maximum temperature is 91 degrees F with an average high of 54 degrees F in January. Summers are dry, and almost all precipitation falls in the December to March period, and even then the average rainy days average just four per month.
Konak Square which adjoins downtown and the waterfront boasts many of the city's attractions. An 82 foot marble, oriental-style clock tower surrounded by four fountains adorns the square. But the top visitor draw is the ancient Roman marketplace known as Agora of Smyrna. Dating from the second century, the open museum features Corinthian columns which are still standing in excellent condition. Nearby and atop a hill sits Kadifekale Castle offering panoramic views of the city.
Izmir civilization dates back 5,000 years when the city was known as Smyrna. It is believed the Greek poet Homer was born there. Later under Persian influence the city declined until Alexander the Great re-established the city as a commercial center in 340 BC. It became part of the Roman Empire until its eventual demise, when later Crusaders contested the area. Turks, who called the city Izmir battled for the city area, with the Ottoman Turks eventually taking control in 1389. After World War I and the Ottoman defeat, conflict emerged between the Greeks and Turks resulting in a destructive fire in 1922. A re-built city became part of Turkey in 1923.
Besides historical allure, Izmir attracts those seeking natural beauty. Popular excursions highlight mountain and sea views such as a ride on the Teleferic cable car. Others take the Asansor elevator which whisks visitors up 155 steps for a different, but expansive perspective of the city. It was built in 1907 to connect two neighborhoods at differing levels, but is now popular with tourists. Nearby Aegean beaches, such as Bodrum and Cesme, offer dramatic coastline vistas and tempt sports enthusiasts with water sports, such as wind surfing.
