"Welcome to the 'Pearl of the Aegean'
Thursday, August 11, 2005
İZMİR - Turkish Daily News
Welcome,
How many cities on earth are there with a 5,000-year history? That has had people walking on its streets and in its squares for five millennia?
How many cities are situated at the westernmost point of a country whose ancient name, 'Güzel Anadolu,' means 'Land of the Mother Sun?'
How many are situated at the beginning of a road known in history as the Kings Road?
How many cities are built at the crossroads of the cradle of civilization, where for thousands of years people who have directed the course of the history of man have thrived?
How many cities are there on earth as lucky as this city? A city that hosts residents who are aware of its historical, natural and cultural heritage -- a civilized, tolerant and happy populace. A city that is referred to as the �Pearl of the Aegean� and is the third largest city in Turkey… Where the sun shines differently, the golden beaches and uniquely beautiful inlets stretch out side-by-side, where the deep green forests, centennial çınar trees, great fir trees and red pine trees reach up to the sky...
Where the blessed soil bears grapes, figs and olives next to the turquoise sea...
A place where the love of heaven encounters nature's passion, where the mountains, plains, lakes, rivers, waterfalls and hot springs are offered freely to mankind…
How many cities are there like this in this world that we live in today, rising from one of the luckiest geographical locations with a history that stretches far back into ancient times, a cultural mosaic that connects Europe to Asia?
This city is calling out to you... 'I am İzmir. Hello and welcome.' "
More:Turkish Daily News - Welcome to the 'Pearl of the Aegean'
