Smyrna

The modern city of Izmir, a popular port city. The city dates back to 3000 BC when Trojans founded settlements across the region, their settlements grew with size over time taking on people from other cities. Eventually, the city was taken over by the Lycian empire during their rise to power, after a period of regrowth it was ruled by Alexander the Great who wished to restore Greek city style. His aspiration led to rebuilding and modernisation for the time.

During the rise of Christianity Smyrna was said to have vied with Ephesus and Pergamum. As seen in the Book of Revelation, the city had one of the 7 churches. Much of the ancient building has been destroyed due to earthquakes throughout the ages but the city has always ended up prospering, now modern Izmir protects many of the original ruins and excavates more when they are discovered.

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