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Viewing Tips for a Trip to Izmir and the Aegean Region of TurkeyTips for a Trip to Izmir and the Aegean Region of Turkey
By smartkathy.green
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Izmir's lined avenues, sweeping promenades, mild climate, and great hotels make Izmir not just a great holiday destination, but also a fabulous base from which to explore Turkey's stunning Aegean region. Here are some must-see attractions. Izmir was one of the most important of the cities that were part of the Ionian federation in the first millennium B.C. It was ruled variously by the Central Anatolian Hittites, the Lydians, the Persians, the Romans, the Byzantines, and the Seljuk Turks until it became part if the Ottoman Empire in 1415, under Sultan Mehmet Celebi. Famous for once being the hometown of Homer, present day Izmir is a vibrant cosmopolitan town that retains its old-world charm and character. The symbol of Izmir is Saat Kulesi (Clock Tower) which stands in the heart of the city, at Konak Square, in all its ornate Ottoman-style glory. For a glimpse of Izmir's glorious past, visit its ancient Agora - originally built for Alexander the Great; the Saint Polycarp Church - reconstructed in 1620 and the oldest church in Izmir; the Kizlaragast Han - a superb example of 18th century Ottoman architecture; the Hisar Mosque - the oldest and the largest in Izmir; and the old Asansor quarter with its historical elevator. Izmir has some wonderful museums, whether it is history you want to delve into or local traditions. The Izmir Archaeological Museum has a fascinating collection of Roman artifacts including a frieze of the funeral games at Belevi, and the head of a massive statue of Domitian from Ephesus. Housed in a beautiful old four-storied stone building, the Izmir Ethnography Museum has a superb collection of Bergama and Gordes carpets and traditional costumes, as well as vibrant displays depicting local arts and crafts. Other interesting museums include the Ataturk Museum, the Fine Arts Museum, the Selcuk Yasar Arts Museum, and the Museum of History and Art. Over the years, Izmir has built up an enviable reputation as one of Turkey's cultural hubs. Treat yourself to a musical concert, ballet, or opera at the Izmir Cultural Centre, or take in a performance of the Aegean Philharmonic Orchestra. This vibrant city also hosts the Izmir International Festival, which attracts a variety of local and international artistes every year. Browse through the many lanes of the Kemeralti Market area for great antiques, jewelry, clothes, the famous Turkish 'evil eye', and Izmir's famous dried figs and raisins. For more exclusive shopping, head to Alsancak, Kursiyaka, Cumhuriyet Avenue, and Pasaport. Indulge in some fresh seafood at one of the many wonderful fish restaurants in Kemeralti - try the local specialties tranca and cipura, which are two delicious varieties of sea bream. On an evening out, head to one of the bars and cafes around Kordonboyu, Pasaport Pier, and Karsiyaka. Alsancak, with its beautifully-restored old houses, has been converted into a promenade with great restaurants and bars. For the best views in town, watch the stunning sunset from the top of Kadifekale (Mount Pagus) with its ancient ruined castle, built during the reign of Alexander the Great to overlook the Gulf of Izmir. Above all, Izmir is a jumping-off point for the magnificent Aegean region, which is dotted with pristine beaches, olive groves, pine woods, idyllic villages, quaint fishing harbors, and the remains of ancient civilizations. From Izmir, venture further afield along the Aegean coast and explore fascinating Ephesus, Pergamum, Troy and Assos. Car hire Izmir is a great way to explore these places at your own pace. World-famous for its stunning ruins, Ephesus is just 44 miles away from Izmir, which can be easily visited by picking up a car rental in Turkey. One of the most majestic and well-preserved buildings of Ephesus is the Great Theater, the largest in Asia Minor, with a capacity of over 24000 people. Other monuments worth seeing include the beautifully-restored Library of Celsus, the Trade Agora, and the Temple of Serapes. The writings of Homer and Virgil are synonymous with Helen of Troy, Paris, Achilles, and Alexander the Great. The ancient city of Troy, located near Canakkale, has a wealth of archaeological sites that transport visitors back to the legendary past of this long-lost kingdom. A famous historical teaching centre, Assos is the place where Aristotle lived and taught for three years. Watch the sunset over the Aegean from the spectacular ruins of the Temple of Athena on the Acropolis of Assos. One of Turkey's most spectacular natural wonders, Pamukkale or 'Cotton Castle' is a stunning, surreal landscape with its dazzling white calcareous 'castles' formed by limestone-laden thermal springs. The waters are believed to be highly curative, so you may want to either take a dip here in one of the many fine hotels, or explore the ruins of the ancient city of Hierapolis. Car hire Izmir is a launching spot to visit all these highlights of any visit to Turkey. About the Author: I am Kathy Green and traveling is my passion, I like to travel to different destinations all over the world and I mostly prefer to book my car at a car rental service in Turkey. The car hire service in Izmir, Turkey made my last trip successful and very enjoyable. Article source: 111 Travel Directory: Triple1.com (triple one dot com) |
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