Once a thriving ancient metropolis, Smyrna—modern-day İzmir—has been shaped by Aeolians, Ionians, Lydians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. As one of the Seven Churches of Revelation, it played a crucial role in early Christianity. Today, İzmir stands as a dynamic Turkish city where ancient ruins, historic landmarks, and modern life intertwine, offering a journey through millennia of history.
Table of Contents
The Foundations of Smyrna
Smyrna’s history stretches back thousands of years, with its origins intertwined with mythology. According to legend, the city was founded by the Amazons, the warrior women of ancient lore, and later expanded under the Aeolian Greeks before coming under the influence of the Ionians in the 7th century BCE. Homer, the great poet of antiquity, is often linked to this city, further embedding Smyrna into the very fabric of classical history.
During the Hellenistic era, Alexander the Great played a pivotal role in the city’s development. Following his conquest of Anatolia (Asia Minor), his generals initiated the relocation and expansion of the city to the slopes of Mount Pagos (modern-day Kadifekale), establishing the foundations of a magnificent metropolis. Under Roman rule, Smyrna flourished, becoming a prominent center of trade, culture, and early Christian faith.
Smyrna in the Book of Revelation
Smyrna holds a unique place in Christian history as one of the Seven Churches of Revelation. In the Book of Revelation (2:8-11), the church in Smyrna is addressed directly by Jesus Christ through the Apostle John. Unlike some of the other churches, Smyrna receives no rebuke—only encouragement to remain faithful despite persecution.
The most well-known figure from Smyrna’s Christian past is St. Polycarp, one of the earliest Christian martyrs and a disciple of the Apostle John. As the bishop of Smyrna, he steadfastly refused to renounce his faith under Roman persecution, ultimately facing martyrdom in 155 CE. The Church of St. Polycarp, one of the oldest Christian sites in İzmir, continues to honor his legacy.
Exploring Ancient Smyrna
Smyrna offers a wealth of archaeological treasures waiting to be explored—walking through its ancient streets, one can imagine the world that may have inspired Homer, the legendary poet said to have been born here, whose epics shaped the very foundations of Western literature.
The Agora of Smyrna
One of the best-preserved agoras in the world, the Smyrna Agora was a bustling marketplace and civic center during Roman times. Strolling through its colonnaded streets, one can imagine merchants selling their goods, philosophers like Theodorus of Smyrna discussing mathematics and astronomy, orators such as Aelius Aristides captivating crowds with his speeches, and early Christians gathering in secrecy. The intricate water system, inscriptions, and stunning archways make this site a must-visit for history and philosophy enthusiasts alike.
Kadifekale (Mount Pagos)
Overlooking modern İzmir, Kadifekale—known in ancient times as Mount Pagos—was the strategic heart of Smyrna. The castle ruins, built during the reign of Alexander the Great and later expanded by the Romans and Byzantines, provide breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Aegean coastline.
The Ancient Theater
Though less preserved than its counterpart in Ephesus, the ancient theater of Smyrna once hosted grand performances and gatherings. Efforts are underway to further excavate and restore this site to its former glory.
The Church of St. Polycarp
A living testament to Smyrna’s deep Christian heritage, the Church of St. Polycarp stands as one of the most significant religious sites in İzmir. The church, adorned with impressive frescoes and mosaics, commemorates the life and sacrifice of one of early Christianity’s most venerated figures.
Smyrna Through the Ages: Byzantine, Ottoman, and Turkish Republic Periods
As Smyrna evolved from an ancient metropolis into modern İzmir, three key periods—Byzantine, Ottoman, and Turkish Republic—shaped the city’s identity, each leaving its distinct mark on its architecture, culture, and demographics.
Byzantine Smyrna: A City of Faith and Fortifications
Following the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 CE, Smyrna became a significant city within the Byzantine Empire, maintaining its importance as a commercial and religious hub. Christianity, which had taken root during Roman times, flourished under Byzantine rule, with churches, monasteries, and religious institutions playing central roles in the city’s daily life.
- The fortifications of Kadifekale (Mount Pagos) were strengthened to protect against Arab raids, particularly during the 7th and 8th centuries when Byzantine Anatolia was frequently under attack.
- Smyrna remained a crucial center for Orthodox Christianity, though it suffered destruction during various conflicts, including the Seljuk raids in the 11th century.
- In 1081, the city fell to the Seljuks, marking the beginning of periodic control by different powers before ultimately returning to Byzantine rule under the Empire of Nicaea (1204–1261).
- The Knights of St. John briefly controlled the city in the 14th century, establishing a military presence in the port before Ottoman forces decisively took over in 1415.
Ottoman Smyrna: A Cosmopolitan Trading Hub
With the Ottoman conquest in 1415, Smyrna entered a new era of prosperity, emerging as one of the most important ports in the empire. The city’s diversity became one of its defining features, with Muslims, Greeks, Armenians, Jews, and Levantines coexisting within an intricate social and economic fabric.
- Economic Boom: By the 17th century, Smyrna had become a major trading hub, exporting figs, silk, cotton, and tobacco to Europe and importing manufactured goods. European merchants, particularly the French, British, Dutch, and Italians, established consulates and trading posts.
- Multicultural Identity: The city was divided into quarters reflecting its diverse population—the Turkish quarter, the Greek and Armenian quarters, the Jewish district, and the Frankish quarter, where European merchants lived.
- Religious and Cultural Tolerance: While the Ottoman administration maintained Islamic rule, it allowed religious minorities to manage their own affairs under the millet system. Churches, synagogues, and mosques stood side by side, symbolizing the city’s layered identity.
- Western Influence: In the 19th century, Smyrna became one of the most Westernized cities in the empire. The introduction of modern infrastructure, such as the first Ottoman railway (1856) connecting Smyrna to the interior, fueled economic expansion.
- Rising Nationalism: Toward the late Ottoman period, tensions between ethnic groups grew due to nationalist movements, particularly among Greeks and Armenians, leading to increasing unrest.
Smyrna in the Turkish Republic: The Transformation into İzmir
The early 20th century brought immense upheaval to Smyrna, culminating in its transformation into İzmir. The Greco-Turkish War (1919–1922), fought between Greece and Turkish nationalists, led to the city’s most defining moment—the Great Fire of Smyrna (September 1922).
- Greek Occupation (1919–1922): Following World War I, Greek forces occupied Smyrna, with the vision of annexing it to Greece as part of the “Megali Idea.” However, Turkish forces, led by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, reclaimed the city in September 1922.
- The Great Fire of Smyrna: After Turkish forces entered the city, a devastating fire broke out, consuming much of the Greek and Armenian quarters, forcing thousands to flee.
- Population Exchange (1923): The Treaty of Lausanne formalized the population exchange between Greece and Turkey, permanently altering İzmir’s demographics. The once-thriving Greek and Armenian communities left, while Muslim Turks from Greece and the Balkans settled in their place.
- Modernization and Industrialization: Under the Turkish Republic, İzmir underwent rapid modernization, aligning itself with Atatürk’s secular and economic reforms. The city’s port remained vital to Turkey’s trade, and its cosmopolitan essence continued in a new form.
Modern İzmir
While ancient Smyrna’s ruins provide a glimpse into the past, modern İzmir pulses with energy and cultural vibrancy. The city has retained its cosmopolitan essence, serving as a major port and commercial hub much like its ancient predecessor. The Kemeraltı Bazaar, reminiscent of the bustling markets of antiquity, offers a sensory delight with its spices, textiles, and local delicacies. Meanwhile, the scenic waterfront promenade—Kordon—is a perfect place to experience İzmir’s modern charm.
Visiting Smyrna
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for exploring the ruins and enjoying the city.
- Getting There: İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport connects the city to major destinations worldwide, with easy transportation options into the city center.
- Where to Stay: From luxury hotels to boutique accommodations, İzmir provides a range of lodging options for all travelers.
- Recommended Experiences: A guided tour of the Agora and Kadifekale, a visit to the Church of St. Polycarp, and an evening stroll along Kordon.
Conclusion and Summary
Once a thriving metropolis of the ancient world, Smyrna—modern-day İzmir—has stood the test of time as a city of commerce, culture, and faith. Founded by the Aeolians and later shaped by the Ionians, the city flourished under the Lydians before entering its golden age during Hellenistic and Roman rule. As one of the Seven Churches of Revelation, Smyrna played a pivotal role in early Christianity, enduring persecution while fostering some of the faith’s earliest communities, including the legacy of St. Polycarp.
With the rise of the Byzantine Empire, Smyrna became a fortified stronghold and a vital center of trade and faith, its importance growing as a bastion against invasions. The Seljuks captured the city in the 11th century, bringing their architectural and cultural influence, before the Byzantines briefly reclaimed it. In the 14th century, the Ottomans solidified control, transforming Smyrna into a cosmopolitan hub, where merchants from Europe, the Levant, and beyond shaped its unique identity.
Following the Greco-Turkish War and the establishment of the Turkish Republic in 1923, the city—now İzmir—entered a new era of modernization while retaining echoes of its rich and layered past. Today, İzmir is a vibrant metropolis where ancient ruins, Ottoman-era markets, and modern coastal life coexist, offering visitors a unique opportunity to walk through centuries of history in one of Turkey’s most dynamic cities.
Get in Touch with Us
At The Other Tour, we craft tailor-made journeys blending independence and expert guidance. From flights to hotel arrangements, we ensure stress-free travel.
Explore destinations like Istanbul, Cappadocia, or Ephesus your way—join group tours for highlights or opt for private guidance for a personal touch.
In Smyrna, don’t miss the opportunity to walk through the ancient Agora, visit the Church of St. Polycarp, and stand atop Kadifekale, gazing over a city steeped in history.
Contact us to book your unforgettable journey today!
