İzmir Clock Tower

Konak / İzmir

İzmir Clock Tower

The Clock Tower built in 1901 by Sultan Abdulhamid II to commemorate his 25th anniversary on the throne, is indeed a significant example of the Orientalist style in Türkiye. Designed by Raymond Charles Péré, it reflects a blend of Ottoman and Western architectural influences.

Originally, during the Ottoman period, the windows of the Clock Tower were adorned with the sultan's tughra in relief form. However, in the Republican period, these were replaced with crescent-star reliefs, symbolizing the new era.

The clock situated at the upper part of the tower is reputedly a gift from the German Emperor Wilhelm II. Access to the clock mechanism is via a staircase leading up from the ground floor room. The clock requires winding every six days to keep accurate time.

The Clock Tower has witnessed many important events in the history of İzmir since the day it was built. It is probably the most popular landmark that comes to mind when referring to İzmir.

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