Konak Square, Central gathering square in Izmir, Turkey
Konak Square is the central public space of Izmir, Turkey, marked by a distinctive clock tower surrounded by government buildings and market vendors. The plaza functions as a crossroads where locals and visitors gather throughout the day, with pigeons often present near the tower.
The clock tower was built in 1901 as a gift from the German Empire to commemorate an important Ottoman anniversary. This structure became a lasting symbol of Izmir's connection to the late Ottoman period.
The square and its Yali Mosque from 1755 sit at the boundary between prayer spaces and commercial life. Today, you can observe how religious architecture coexists naturally with the market crowds that flow in from nearby streets.
The square sits at a major transportation hub with multiple bus lines and connections throughout the city. Visiting in the morning or early afternoon offers better visibility of the main tower and less crowding from daily foot traffic.
The square contains the Governor's Mansion, which houses regional government offices and underscores its importance as an administrative center. This blend of everyday life and official authority makes the plaza feel like a working seat of local power.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
