Smyrna Stadium

Smyrna Stadium

We have limited amount of information regarding Smyrna Stadium. Once an arena where gladiators fought, Smyrna Stadium was located on southwest slope under Kadifekale, over Air Force Martyrs' Cemetery and Old Firefighting Department axis. French traveller Tournefort, who visited Izmir in 1702, writes 'all marble was taken away and only traces remain'.

Stadiums were used for religious and state ceremonies, as well as political meetings. They were also places of power display for the state, where political views were reflected over teams and athletes during activities.

In Roman period, prisoners were punished in the stadium as part of the festivities. Smyrna Stadium was also the place where Christian community leader St, Polycarp was executed. Asia Minor City Union festivities were held in Smyrna Stadium in 155. Polycarp was brought to the stadium under in arrest during festivities; when asked to deny his faith and declare loyalty to Empire cult, he refused and was executed.

Gladiator fights were important in Smyrna, as part of Roman lifestyle. We learn from a scripture from 3rd century that Apellikon had a gladiator school in the city. These shows where gladiators fought wild animals were very popular from 1th century B.C.E. Graffitos on Basilica walls feature many gladiators with their weapons.