after the war...
by mindcrime
It’s almost impossible to see how Izmir looked like before the Greek-Turkish war. As an international port and trade center Izmir had always many people from other countries. The fire that broke out on 13 september 1922 is one of the big disasters of Izmir and destroyed a major part of the city. The city rebuilt after the proclamation of the Turkish Republic in 1923 but it was a completely different city because a city isn’t only the buildings but basically the people that live into.
Both countries have their point of view for that period and one accusing the other of committing atrocities but you’ve got to consider the lack of comprehensive and reliable sources from that period to be sure. After long conversions with Turkish people we have seen that both countries have more common things to share than the politicians like. That’s why after several trips in Turkey I have made some real good friends there. One of my favorite greek books is "Farewell Anatolia" written by Dido Sotiriou. It is a fine example of the era that both communities were living together till they "forced" to hate each other.
In the pictures you can see the greek and the german embassies in building that must be much older than the new ones next to them.
Karsiyaka By night
by Erkmen
When the weather get darks, busy streeets of Karsiyaka gets quiet and you see a much nicer Karsiyaka..
Besides the main street Karsiyaka has very nice houses along the promenade.. And I love the view over there..
Take a Breath in Kizlaragasi Hani!
by Pinat
It is a typical Ottoman building in Kemeralti neighborhood. It was built by Kizlaragasi Haci Besir Aga in the 18th century as a caravanserai. The Bedesten (Inn) is a square-shaped and two-level building. Kizlaragasi Han, being also close to the port, was an important trades point in Izmir until the developing of transportation technologies and opening of new trade routes, at certain times it even served as a local stock exchange. After 19th century the Inn was mainly used for storage of the goods instead of caravans' stop.
Kizlaragasi Han was restored in 1993 as a tourist spot, despite it's off-tourist route, and converted into a handicrafts sales center. There is a small cafeteria in the open-air courtyard where you can relax and have a Turkish tea or coffee.
You can also buy some "mesir macunu" if you come across a guy in traditional Ottoman clothes selling it. Be careful when eating though: As it is quite spicy, it may cause coughing if eaten too fast!
by boat inside Izmir!
by mindcrime
One of my best moments in Izmir was when I took the ferry to go to Karsiyaka district from Alsancak port. It’s fun, not expensive and of course faster than take the local bus that will probably stuck in the traffic for hours. As everywhere in Turkey I enjoyed a nice cup of tea inside the boat. There are 24 ferries shuttle across 8 quays (Bostanli, Karsyaka, Bayrakli, Alsancak, Izmir, Pasaport, Izmir, Konak, Goztepe and Uckuyular).
Bergama (Pergamon)
by boxxla
Yet another archeological wonder to be found in Turkey. Less famous than Ephesus but no less interesting. The hike up the hill is wonderful (don't miss the shortcut on the south slope or it will be a looong walk).
Sign in with Facebook
an old door-IZMIR
Izmir - Konak Camii
a street vendor selling simit
on my way to Izmir
