The Double Megaron
One of the most intriguing structures of Old Smyrna, the Double Megaron, consists of a multi-roomed building. The structure, with original dimensions of 13 × 10 meters, was made up of adjoining rooms believed to have opened onto the same courtyard. Prof. Dr. Ekrem Akurgal suggested that it might have been a two-story building, dating […]
The Megaron of Meetings
This structure, serving as a meeting place for the rulers and nobles of the period, was unearthed by Prof. Dr. Ekrem Akurgal in 1975 and named the “Meeting Megaron.” Estimated to have been built in the second half of the 7th century BCE, it was restored in 1995–1996. The original dimensions of the structure are […]
The Temple of Athena
Dedicated to the goddess Athena, this structure dates back to the 7th century BCE. Considering the characteristics of the period, a direct connection can be established between the construction of the temple and the city’s development. Therefore, the Temple of Athena’s existence serves as evidence of the economic and social advancement achieved by Old Smyrna. […]
Settlement Plan of Old Smyrna
City Walls Archaeological excavations of the city walls reveal that Old Smyrna became an increasingly significant city, particularly from the 10th century BCE onward. This period was marked by intense migrations from the Greek mainland to Western Anatolia and rapidly changing regional dynamics. Findings from the excavations, including imported ceramics, indicate that Old Smyrna had […]
The History of Old Smyrna
“The ancient city of Smyrna, which gave its name to İzmir, was established on a small promontory extending toward the Aegean Sea, on the southern slopes of Mount Yamanlar (ancient Sipylos). Situated along a bay shielded from the north wind and featuring a natural harbor, this elevation has been one of the most important settlement […]