Jewish Heritage Tour

Full-day Sardes, Izmir Jewish Heritage Tour - Overnight in Izmir

You will be/can be met at the Izmir airport or even at your Hotel in Izmir. Then drive to the Karatas area in Izmir. Visit Beth Israel Synagogue, The construction of the Bet Israel Synagogue started on 15 March 1905 upon the decree of Sultan Abdulhamid II, and it was opened to worship in 1907. Bet Israel is the largest, most magnificent, and ceremonial synagogue in Izmir.

However, the temple differs from the traditional Izmir style with its building style and seating arrangement. It was not built with a central plan but has been a double practice of Teva from the very beginning. Due to the location of the building plot, the Ehal (the closet where the Torah rolls are stored) is placed on the south wall instead of the east wall.

Dario Moreno Street, It is located on Dario Moreno Street. There are old Greek houses lined up left and right in this beautiful street, named after the famous artist Dario Moreno from Izmir and was formerly called Elevator Street.

There is also the house on the street where Dario Moreno lived for a while. These houses, each of which has been transformed into small and cute cafes and art workshops today, add a different spirit to the street.

The Historical Elevator is the best structure to catch the unique view of Izmir Bay with its promenade at the top. The elevator was built in 1907 by Jewish businessman Nesim Levi to overcome the topographical barrier between hill neighborhoods above sea level.

Then drive to Konak Square and visit the clock tower; Izmir Clock Tower, the symbol of Izmir, is the Ottoman Sultan II. It was built in 1901 as part of the 25th-anniversary celebrations of Abdulhamid's accession to the throne. Kemeralti Bazaar is called a well-established commercial area.

This commercial square, which was started from the Hisar Mosque built in Izmir in 1592, has grown more and more. Since the 19th century, inns and covered bazaars have been located in the Kemeralti Bazaar, which has been the liveliest trade point in İzmir.

However, the shops here were referred to as small businesses that local people were interested in. Options such as blacksmith, coal maker, nail maker, spice and straw bazaar were located in Kemeralti Bazaar in the past. Commercial shops in different areas were also found at various points.

Havra Street, named after the many synagogues in its vicinity, was a lively shopping center where Kosher (Halal) food was produced and sold. According to their beliefs, the Jews of Izmir used to obtain a significant part of their food needs, such as meat, fish, chicken, yogurt, cheese, and eggs from Havra Street.

As with other foods, wine production was produced in and around this street in accordance with Kosher rules. You will also have the opportunity to taste the dishes in the Sephardic cosine. After lunch, drive to Sardes.

Sardes Ancient Ruin

The ruins of Sardis are incredible, surrounded by a stunning mountain backdrop. A must for archeology buffs, photographers, people interested in Judaic history (magnificent ancient synagogue), and bible study groups (one of the seven churches of the Revelation).

Do some research before visiting. Today's ruins are pretty impressive, with the best-preserved ancient synagogue and gymnasium being the highlights for many. A sign points south to the Temple of Artemis, just over 1km away. This is where money was first used. Today only a few columns of the once-magnificent but never-completed building still stand.

Nevertheless, the temple's plan is visible and very impressive. Nearby is an early Christian church dating from the 4th century AD. After the tour drive back to Izmir. Overnight in Izmir.