Asansör

Asansör

Our next stop is one of the unique structures of the city, probably the best spot to watch and enjoy the sunset: Asansor (Elevator).

Earliest Jewish settlement in the city was 'Juderia', Jewish neighbourhood located on both sides of Ikicesmelik Street. Late 19th - early 20th century saw the Jewish people move towards this Karatas-Asansor region.

Until 155 years ago, Asansor cliff was used as a stone quarry, and the cliff actually ran all the way into the sea. The only way to reach Halil Rifat Pasha Street from modern day Mithat Pasha Street was to climb 155 steps.

In 1907, a Jewish philanthropist named Nesim Levi sponsored a 40 metre tall elevator tower to be constructed. Nesim Levi Bayrakli is rumoured to get his inspiration from a similar elevator in Lisbon.

This street elevator was run by steam engine in the early days, and then switched to hydropower; since 1985 it runs on electricity.

You can reach Asansor through Dario Moreno Road. In his day, Dario Moreno put Izmir on the map; in 1990 he was honoured to be the namesake for this small road, where he lived with his mother for a period.

Asansor Tower gradually gets narrower as it descends. Consisting of four sections, the lowest is made of stone, while the upper parts are built using bricks. On the lower part of the stone section lies an epitaph, which reads 'Elevator was built by patron Nesim Levi in 1907' in French and Hebrew. Brick walled entrance hall features ornamental egg friezes, floral patterns, and star patterns.

Historical Asansor was donated to Izmir Metropolitan Municipality in 1983 by Ayla Oktem. Urban developments and large structures damaged elevator's visibility and impact. 'Izmir Historical Elevator and Surrounding Area Cultural Development Plan' run in 1992 helped restore Asansor, along with some rearrangements in surrounding roads and streets.

Along with elevation service it provides, Asansor also hosts its guests at the lounges on top floor.