Limantepe

Limantepe is an archaeological site containing the remains of an ancient settlement with fortification walls and a submerged harbor in the Aegean Sea. The excavation area reveals layers of occupation spanning different periods at the same location.

The site shows continuous human occupation from the Neolithic period through Roman times, revealing a long history of habitation. Systematic excavations began in 1992, uncovering these distinct layers of settlement.

The settlement served as a trading hub connecting the Cyclades with Anatolia, as shown by pottery and objects from Greece and Cyprus discovered there. These finds help visitors understand the economic relationships of the ancient Mediterranean world.

The main artifacts from the site are displayed at the Izmir Archaeology Museum, where visitors can examine recovered objects. Visiting this collection provides a better understanding of life in the ancient settlement.

The site features one of the oldest artificial harbors in the Aegean Sea, confirmed by anchors from a wooden merchant ship from the 7th century BCE. This discovery shows that safe mooring sites were deliberately constructed even in early periods.