Explore Izmir History and Touristic Places – Chapter 2
There is an Agora (market place) which is remained from Romans in the place so called Namazgah which is northwest of Kadifekale. Agora which was founded iii the epoch of Hellenism was fallen down by the earthquakes and was refounded in the second century. There were stores and warehouses in this place which is surrounded by the columns with headings.
A basilica of 160 m.long and with two stories lies to the north of Agora (Pazaryeri). This basilica which is kept best can be seen with its ancient state. There are two statues in Agora. One of them is the statue of Poseidon in his sitting position and another one that is more strong is the standing position of Demeter.
The ancient city terminates to the south of Agora with a number of narrow market streets. Here are seen some caravansaries. Again in Ka¬difekale is a Turkish bath named Kizlaradasi and another Turkish bath of Cakaloglu. Both of them were constructed in the 18th century. While coming down to the shore, Hisar Mosque (1577), Kemeralti mosqUe (1671), a divan mosque (1636) are the religious temples which you can visit. Izmir clock tower, the mosque of Konak and the square of Konak are along the quay street (Kordonboyu). The zones of port extend north – wards.In the oriental tea-shops along Kordonboyu which is considered the most lively area of Izmir, to smoke Nargile (water-pipe) or to drink tea in front of the sea is an invaluable pleasure.
The wide street which goes away towards eastward from Kordonboyu is called Fevzipasa one. By following this street, one can come to the square of Basmane and the train station. The square of Basmane is somewhat the center of the city. From here we can pass to Kultur Park which is an international fair that is famous all over the world.
