CIPA 2003 XIX th International Symposium, 30 September - 04 October, 2003, Antalya, Turkey
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Photograph 2 - A general view of the Agora
As indicated by the findings of the excavations, the structure
consisting of a basement and two floors surrounded with
porticos on three sides is situated around a courtyard of 123
metres in the east-west direction having a free access, with the
North Structure and the East and West Structure respectively
being 29 m and 17.8 m wide. The basement, actually originating
from the slope of the land, has a very interesting construction
with its arches in the shape of the Christian cross. It is known
that in the North Structure the shops are lined on a street and a
number of 28 rooms open to a vestibule here with columns
(Naumann & Kantar, 1950a). There is no reliable information as
to the location and the characteristics of the South Structure.
Photograph 3 - The Basement contruction of the West
Structure in the Agora
The three-dimensional impact of the structure is perceived
solely through the 13 columns of the West Structure and the
Faustina Gate.
Photograph 4 - Faustina Gate
Excavations in the Agora are presently continuing and the
findings lead to a great deal of information regarding the history
of Izmir. The area being one of the most important antique
remains discovered in the city, a list of possible works to be
carried out is as follows:
Exterminating by regular use of pesticides the plants
giving harm to the structure,
Revealing every part of the structure by means of a
comprehensive research,
Due to the fact that the 13 columns in the West
Structure fail to reflect the real height of the Agora,
initializing a new formation based on the restitution
so that a three dimensional sense will be achieved and
the edge of the top cover will be partially included,
Following a comprehensive act of nationalization to
the south of the structure, determining the location of
the South Structure based on information to be
derived from the ancient road systems, and
undertaking a testing excavation in the area.
Enabling viewers to visualize the structure in its
original scale by having a small scale model on
display,
Taking precautions as to the conservation of insitu
works revealed during the excavations (such as the
conservation of mosaic wall tiles),
The anastylosis of the structure at the end of an
organized, long-term excavation,
Re-designing the area as an open air museum to host
cultural activities harmless to the structure.
Excavating the underground road connections in the
Agora, Theatre and Kadifekale area.
In addition to the above suggestions regarding the Agora, this
paper also includes certain concentrated studies on its
surroundings.
1.1 Access To The Agora
It is recommended that the Anafartalar Street and the side
streets numbered 920, 943 and 816 providing access to the
Agora from the ikiçeçmelik Street be renovated and new floor
covering be installed, while also tending to the green factor,
water element and building façades. The routes mentioned
within the scope of the study have been included with their
present states as well as those being suggested.
Figure 2 - Facade from the 943' d street
