The Smyrna Agora Archaeological Site, located on the northern slope of Pagos (Kadifekale) Hill, is a fascinating glimpse into the ancient city's vibrant commercial, political, and social life. Established in the 4th century BC, the agora of Smyrna played a crucial role as the state agora, surrounded by significant public buildings of the period.

The Agora: The term 'Agora' refers to a city square or marketplace, serving as the focal point for commerce, politics, religion, and social events. In large ancient cities, there were typically two agoras: one for state affairs and another for commercial activities. Smyrna's agora was founded during the Hellenistic Period, and most of the surviving remains date back to the Roman Period, rebuilt with the support of Emperor Marcus Aurelius after an earthquake in 178 AD.

The Basilica: Located on the north wing of the agora, the basilica is the largest known Roman basilica, measuring 165 x 28 meters. It features wide and high central corridors with narrow, low parallel corridors on the sides. Initially used as a courthouse, the basilica also accommodated merchants and bankers. Its cross vaults at the east and west ends are exquisite examples of Roman architecture. The basilica's north façade has two monumental doors, with the west side door fully exposed today. The presence of vaulted shops on the north façade suggests that the agora also served commercial functions in its later stages.

The Graffiti: Roman-period graffiti found on the plastered basement walls and arch piers of the basilica provide a unique glimpse into the daily lives of the people. These graffiti include depictions of love games, gladiatorial battles, sailboats, names of lovers, birds, ships, and riddles. The graffiti also offer significant insights into early Christianity and are considered one of the most extensive collections of their kind in the world.

The Western Stoa: The western stoa consists of galleries separated by three rows of colonnades, built on a basement floor. Only the arched basement floors remain today. In antiquity, the ground floor and second floor provided shelter from the elements and were used for strolling. Towards the end of the Roman Period, some walls of the basement galleries were closed, and cisterns were built. Columns on the first floor facing the courtyard were restored and erected in the 1940s.

The Faustina Gate and Ancient Street: An east-west avenue in the grid-planned city of Smyrna intersects the agora, dividing it into two equal parts. A magnificent gate, featuring a portrait relief of Faustina, wife of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, marks this intersection. The other arch of the gate, believed to have contained a portrait of Marcus Aurelius, has not survived. This gate was a tribute to the emperor and his wife for rebuilding the agora after the earthquake.

Historical Significance: Smyrna's importance as a seaport linked the internal regions of Anatolia to the sea, maintaining its significance through various periods. The agora served as the administrative, political, judiciary, and trading center of Smyrna, featuring porticos, official buildings, statues, altars, and temples.

The Smyrna Agora Archaeological Site offers a rich historical experience, showcasing the multifaceted roles of the agora in ancient city life. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins, admire the intricate architecture, and gain insights into the daily lives and social structures of ancient Smyrna.