Waiting to Be Discovered

The Ancient City of Smyrna

The ancient city of Smyrna was built on a mound that was once a small peninsula connected to the mainland by an isthmus. Today, the site is still being explored to uncover its rich history.

Early Excavations

The first scientific studies of Smyrna began between 1948 and 1951, when a Turkish-British team conducted excavations. From 1966 to 1993, Professor Ekrem Akurgal continued these excavations. Since 1993, the work has been led by Professor Dr. Meral Akurgal.

Layers of History

The mound where Smyrna is located shows a continuous history of settlement, dating from the 11th to the 4th century B.C. In the 9th century B.C., the city was surrounded by a defensive wall made of mud bricks. The houses in this period were simple, usually consisting of just one room.

The Peak of Ionian Civilization

Between 650 and 545 B.C., Smyrna reached the height of its power during the Ionian civilization in western Anatolia. During this time, the city produced several important structures, including the City Wall, the Temple of Athena, the Monumental Fountain, the Meeting House Megaron, and the Double Megaron Adventure Balkan Tours.

Innovative City Planning

Smyrna was one of the first cities in the Greek world to use a grid city plan, which was introduced in the second half of the 7th century B.C. The city’s main street ran east to west and ended at the Temple of Athena.

A Sad Loss

Despite the best efforts of the hospital staff, Bereket could not be saved from acute kidney and heart failure. He left behind five children and seven grandchildren. Known as “Halil Abey,” he often spoke about how much effort was needed to keep the band alive. During festivals, ceremonies, and parades, they felt the same excitement as a young, new band.