Izmir is one of the most fascinating cities in Turkey - thanks to its incredible past, today`s economic importance and its breathtaking natural beauty. It is the third largest city in Turkey and its port is second only to Istanbul. A cosmopolitan and lively city all year round, is a major attraction for tourists because of its great geographical location - on the shore of Aegan Sea and gently ascending the slopes of the surrounding mountains but also because of its amazing history reaching back to important events 3000 B.C.. At the beginning of its settlement as ancient Aolian city, Izmir shared with Troy the most advanced culture in Western Anatolia.

By 1500 B.C. it had fallen under the influence of the Central Anatolian Hittite Empire. In the first millenium B.C. Izmir, then known as Smyrna, ranked as one of the most important cities of the Ionian Federation. During this brilliant period, it is believed that Homer resided here. Around 600 B.C. Lydians conquested the city and ended the epoque of greatness. Alexander the Great built a new city in the 4th century B.C. on the slopes of Mt. Pagos. The Roman control transformed Izmir into an important trade and harbor center and marked the city`s second great era. Byzantine rule followed in the fourth century and lasted until the Seljuk conquest in the 11th century. In 1415, under Sultan Mehmet Celebi, Izmir became part of the Ottoman Empire. During the times of liberation in the last century, lots of destructions took place. As the Greek army left the region after battles led by M. K. Ataturk in September 1922, Izmir started to grow again as a modern city of the new Turkish Republic. These days it has also become an important exporter of figs, tabacco, cotton and silk.

Turistic attractions in the area are ample. Starting with museums, mosques, historical sites, parks, modern shopping as well as cultural centers like ballets and operas give residents and visitors an endless source of entertainment.