Izmir Ethnography Museum (Izmir Etnografya Muzesi)
The Basics
Housed in an old hospital built in the 19th century, the Izmir Ethnography Museum offers two floors of illuminating displays. Combine your visit with an exploration of the archaeology Museum next door to see ancient Greece and Roman artifacts. Most sightseeing tours include both of these museums along with an tour of Izmir’s famous Clock Tower and an excursions to the Agora marketplace built in the 4th century BC, and to Kadifekale to walk amongst the restored ruins of the hilltop castle where you have an expansive view of Izmir and the Aegean coastline.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Izmir Ethnography Museum is an ideal spot for history buffs and lovers of crafts.
- Entrance to the museum is free.
- Visit the archaeology Museum next door for an even broader perspective of the region.
Trip ideas
How to Get There
Izmir Ethnography Museum is located on Halil Rifat Paşa Caddesi in the Konak district of Izmir. The nearest metro station is Konak. If driving, there is parking at the Archaeology Museum next door.
When to Get There
Izmir Ethnography Museum is located on Halil Rifat Paşa Caddesi in the Konak district of Izmir. The nearest metro station is Konak. If driving, there is parking at the Archaeology Museum next door.
Kadifekale
As legend has it, Alexander the Great took a nap under a tree on Mt. Kadifekale and dreamt that two pagan gods counseled him to move the city of Izmir (then Smyrna) to this elevated perch. During his reign in the 4th century BC, his general Lysimachus fulfilled the prophecy in part by building a castle on the hill. Restored several times over the years—by Byzantines, Seljuks, Ottomans, and now modern archeologists—the structure has five towers and solid stone walls. Go to the ramparts for the best view of the city and beyond.
- Izmir Archaeology Museum (Izmir Arkeoloji Muzesi)
- Izmir Clock Tower (Izmir Saat Kulesi)
- Church of St. Polycarp
- Baths of Varius
- Kadifekale
- Izmir Cruise Port
- Agora Open Air Museum (Izmir Agora)
- Konak Square (Konak Meydani)
- Basilica of St. John
- Temple of Artemis (Artemision)
- Ephesus (Efes)
- Library of Celsus
- Public Latrine at Ephesus
- Temple of Hadrian at Ephesus
- Ephesus Terrace Houses