Izmir is one of the oldest and most important settlements in Anatolia. The first communities living in Izmir are of Aiol, Ionian and Dorian origin.
In the Iron Age, according to the written sources of the Hittites, there are many documents about Izmir. Izmir was first described as a city in 850 BC. And in those years it was written that the population of Izmir was 1000. The most important building of .Izmir is Athena temple. And it is known that this temple was built around 700 BC.
The most brilliant period of Izmir started in 650 BC. In these years, both agricultural and maritime trade are being carried out in Izmir. And Izmir has become a very rich city. And many constructions and sculptures were built by the Ionians in Izmir. And the richness of Izmir continued until 545 BC.
In 545 BC, Izmir was conquered by the Persians. For almost 200 years, Persians have been in control of the city of Izmir. And unfortunately during this time the city of Izmir lost its importance.
In 333 BC Alexander the Great conquered Izmir. However, because of the insurgency after the death of Iskender, Izmir has constantly changed hands. In 133 BC, Izmir was conquered by the Roman Empire. And Izmir has begun to enrich itself from scratch. Especially in sea trade, Izmir has become a very important port city.
In 395 the Roman Empire was divided into two. That is why Izmir has begun to be controlled by the Eastern Roman Empire. After this date, various attacks were made on Izmir by the Arabs, Turks and the Knights of Rhodes. And Izmir has changed hands many times. In 1403, the Mongol army plundered Izmir. Until 1422, instability continued in Izmir In 1422 Izmir was conquered by the Ottoman Empire.
At the beginning, the Ottoman Empire did not attach Izmir much importance. But in the following years, various investments were made in Izmir by the Ottoman Empire. And on this view, Izmir has become again a magnificent city. And Izmir continued to be one of the most important cities of Anatolia.