THE BEAUTY OF AEGEAN COSTS Rich in scenic beauty, agricultural wealth and recreational possibilities, the Aegean coast is also the heartland of Classical civilizations.

‘Beautiful Izmir’ is the third largest city and the second largest port of Turkey. Built in the 3rd century B.C., it shared with Troy the most advanced culture in Western Anatolia. You’ll see the Konak Mosque, Ataturk Monument, Passport Pier, Alsancak Train Station, Kemeralti shopping area, Izmir Fair and more. You’ll visit Agora, the ancient market place and the Archaeological Museum which has a good collection of antiquities, of which the statues of Poseidon and Demeter are fine examples. After your visit, you’ll have the choice to stop for refreshments at a local carpet shop or return directly to the pier. Note: The market and Agora are explored on foot; this tour includes walking on cobblestone streets in the market and approximately 0.6 miles at Agora. During summer months, expect crowded venues and long lines as well as temperatures that can reach extreme highs. We recommend that you drink a lot of water, use suitable sun protection and dress in layers. Guests who are planning to visit religious sites during free time or on tour, please dress appropriately; no bare shoulders or shorts are allowed.

Today you’ll visit Pergamon, the intellectual center of Asia Minor, and an ancient healing center – Asclepion. Pergamon, a center of learning and arts possessed one of the greatest libraries of antiquity. Among the ruins lays an impressive amphitheater, the Temples of Trajan and Dionisus, the Altar of Zeus, the Sanctuary of Demeter, a three terrace gymnasium and the Agora. The next stop is Asclepion, located to the southwest of the lower city, which was a sanctuary dedicated to the god of health, Asclepios. This center was something very similar to a modern natural healing clinic where patients were given exercises, drugs, herbal remedies or the waters of the springs to drink. Galen, who first introduced the notion of experimentation to medicine, was among its famous physicians. Afterwards, your bus will take you to a carpet weaving center for refreshments and a chance to learn about carpet making which is a dying art, while enjoying your drinks and local snacks. The tour will end with a drive to Izmir. Note: There is approximately 1 1/4 miles of walking over uneven and cobblestone surfaces with inclines and steps. During summer months, expect crowded venues and long lines as well as temperatures that can reach extreme highs. We recommend that you drink a lot of water, use suitable sun protection and dress in layers. Guests who are planning to visit religious sites during free time or on tour, please dress appropriately; no bare shoulders or shorts are allowed.