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How would you like to see Izmir from a perspective you've never witnessed before, from within a century-old story? In the heart of the city, there is a structure that takes you not just 58 meters up, but also on a delightful journey through time. This place is much more than an engineering marvel; it is a monument to friendship, compassion, and an elegant solution to an urban problem. In this article, we will explore the list of things to do in Izmir's Historical Elevator together and see how you can fully experience every moment of this unique adventure.
It all began in the early 1900s with the massive height difference between today's Mithatpaşa Street and Şehit Nihatbey Street. Back then, residents of Karataş had to climb a grueling 155-step staircase to travel between the two neighborhoods. According to legend, one day, the father of the Devidas family, a resident of the area, fell down these stairs and broke his leg. His close friend, Jewish businessman Nesim Levi Bayrakoğlu, decided to put an end to this hardship and gifted this magnificent structure to the city in 1907. It is this humane touch that makes the Asansör (Elevator) one of the most special places reflecting the soul of Izmir.
Ride the nostalgic elevator between the two sides of Karataş
Even the path leading to the Historical Elevator is the beginning of an adventure. When you step into the vibrant Dario Moreno Street, formerly known as Asansör Çıkmaz Sokağı (Elevator Dead End Street), the tower greets you at the end of the street in all its glory. As you look up, you will be instantly captivated by its architecture, rising on a solid stone foundation with red bricks meticulously brought from Marseille for its construction.
The moment you step into the elevator's cabin, you leave the speed of the modern world behind and embark on a nostalgic journey. As you gently ascend, the city view peeks at you in fragments through the tower's small windows, further piquing your curiosity for the magnificent panorama you are about to witness. Although this system, which once operated on steam power, now serves with a modern electric mechanism, you can feel its century-old spirit in every moment.
This short but pleasant journey does more than just connect two streets; it transports you from the intimate atmosphere of the street to the infinity of the sky.
Photograph the panoramic view of the Izmir Gulf from its terrace
Hold your breath as the elevator doors open, because the view that unfolds before you is truly breathtaking. The deep blue waters of the Izmir Gulf, the bustle of Konak Square, the white trails of the ferries, and all the dynamism of the city are laid out at your feet. This is where the most beautiful postcards of Izmir are captured, and it offers you the chance to take your own unforgettable shot.
You should consider yourself very lucky, especially if you are here around sunset. Watching the golden hues of the sun dance on the waters of the gulf is one of the most romantic and peaceful moments you can experience in Izmir. Keep your camera or phone ready to immortalize these unique moments. You can capture the most perfect photos by stepping out onto the wooden viewing balcony, which rests on iron consoles.
If you wish to enjoy the view for longer, there is a stylish restaurant and a cafe-bar with a more relaxed atmosphere on the terrace, operated by the Izmir Metropolitan Municipality. You can sip a cup of coffee against the view, engage in a pleasant conversation with friends, or crown a special day with an unforgettable dinner. Moreover, the fact that access to this magnificent view is completely free makes the Elevator a beloved meeting point for everyone in the city.
Descend from the Elevator and take a walk on Dario Moreno Street
When you leave the magic of the view and descend again, your adventure is not yet over. The famous Dario Moreno Street, an inseparable part of the Elevator, awaits you with its bohemian and artistic soul. This cobblestone street, where historic Greek houses have been restored and transformed into charming cafes, art workshops, and souvenir shops, offers you a completely different atmosphere.
The street is named after the famous artist Dario Moreno, who once lived here and declared his love for the city to the world with his song Canım İzmir (My Dear Izmir). At the entrance of the street, you are greeted by busts of him and another Izmir lover, the French artist Enrico Macias; this is a symbol of the city's loyalty to art and its artists. Walking down this narrow street accompanied by soft music, you might feel as if you are on a movie set.
One of the best things to do here is to sit at one of the boutique cafes that invite you in with their colorful tables and just enjoy the moment. You can also buy a special souvenir for your loved ones and yourself by browsing the shops where you can find many unique items, from handmade jewelry to nostalgic records. The unique energy of this street might remind you a bit of the lively streets of Alsancak and shows how Izmir hosts many different spirits together.
While You're Here...
If you still have energy after your delightful tour of the Historical Elevator and its surroundings, you are in a great location to discover the other beauties Konak has to offer. With a short walk, you can reach Konak Square and the surrounding historical sites, which is considered the heart of Izmir. Here, you can see the Clock Tower, the symbol of the city, and admire the elegant architecture of the Yalı Mosque.
If you enjoy getting lost in labyrinthine streets where history and shopping intertwine, you should definitely head to the Kemeraltı Bazaar. With its centuries-old inns, artisan restaurants, and thousands of shops, Kemeraltı will offer you an authentic Izmir experience. Also, if you want to feel the rich cultural heritage of the region more deeply, you can add the nearby Bet Israel Synagogue to your list (don't forget that you need to get permission in advance to visit).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there an entrance fee for the Izmir Historical Elevator? No, visiting the Historical Elevator, using the lift, and accessing the observation deck is completely free. Since its restoration in 1992, the structure has been operated by the Izmir Metropolitan Municipality as a public cultural and recreational venue.
What are the visiting hours for the Historical Elevator? The Historical Elevator is generally open to visitors every day of the week from 08:00 to 00:00. As the operating hours of the restaurant and cafe on the terrace may differ, it is advisable to make a reservation, especially if you are planning to have dinner.
Is there car access and parking available at the Elevator? The Elevator is located at a central point in Konak, on Mithatpaşa Street. However, Dario Moreno Street, where the entrance to the elevator is located, is closed to traffic. You can leave your car in nearby paid parking lots or on-street parking spaces and reach it with a short walk. Using public transport is often a more practical option.
