Izmir Museum of History and Art

'One of the centres that contributes to the vibrancy of the cultural scene in Izmir History and Art Museum.

Because of its location on the Aegean shore, its rich history, and wonderful architecture, Izmir is a source of inspiration for artists. The museum was originally established in 1952 by the Turkish state and given the name of the zmir State Painting and Sculpture Museum. It was later relocated from the Kültürpark to its current position on Atatürk Boulevard close to the Konak dock. 

THINGS TO DO AT IZMIR HISTORY AND ART MUSEUM

• You will have a lot t explore because it is spread out over an area of 13,320 square metres. 

In this museum, the artworks that are hundreds or even thousands of years old are not arranged according to the time periods in which they were created, but rather according to a particular topic. This museum is heaven on earth for all of you history nerds out there since it spans the eras from the seventh century all the way up to the present day and includes everything in between.  

• Explore the pavilions designated to particular objects:

SCULPTURE PAVILION

Stone sculptures from the Archaic, Classic, Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods are shown on the floor that leads up to the entrance. Artifacts that were found during excavations in and around Izmir are displayed: One floor features a collection of sarcophagi and steles that demonstrate the burial customs of the Hellenistic and Roman periods.

In addition, this part has sculptures, inscriptions, and friezes depicting gladiators and Olympic athletes competing in various events.

Its Sculpture pavilion, which is packed with masterpieces from ancient Smyrna, Teos, Miletos, and Pergamon, is simply fantastic. Take a look at the high reliefs of Poseidon and Demeter from the Agora in Izmir, the amazingly lifelike Hellenistic three-figure stele from Tralleis (Aydn), which dates back to the Hellenistic period, and the Roman-era statue of the river god Kaistros from Ephesus, which dates to the second century AD. It is difficult to choose few from the many gems that are housed at the Sculpture pavilion because there are so many.

PRECIOUS OBJECTS

Beginning in the sixth century B.C. and continuing until the Ottoman period, this part of the museum features artefacts made of precious metals and stones, including gold, silver, bronze, and precious stones.

The coin collection is one of the highlights of the attraction. This collection features some of the coins that were struck at Sardis during the reign of King Croesus. Electrum, an alloy of gold, silver and traces of other metals, was used to craft these objects, which date back to the very early seventh century BC. Additionally impressive is the pavilion's collection of fine jewellery.

CERAMICS PAVILION

The Ceramic Works area of the museum houses a very extensive collection of items of this nature, spanning the time period from prehistoric times all the way up to the Byzantine era.

• Promotion and recognition of talent make it a contemporary and dynamic: facility for budding artists:

It features an extensive collection of paintings and sculptures, as well as exhibitions that highlight the work of renowned artists, and it is open to the public. This establishment provides guests with the opportunity to peruse and appreciate the works of regional, national, and even international artists. In addition, the museum hosts art workshops and provides access to a library.'