The Saint Polycarp Church is the oldest church in Izmir and represents ancient Smyrna’s role as one of the Seven Churches of Revelation.
Saint Polycarp was converted by the John the Apostle and became Bishop of Smyrna. He was martyred by the Romans at age 86 in 155 AD at Kadifkale, which was atop the hill near modern-day Izmir. According to tradition, when they tried to burn Polycarp at the stake, the flames wouldn’t touch him. They finally stabbed him to death.
The Church of Saint Polycarp in Izmir was reconstructed in 1620.
A view of the lavish interior of St. Polycarp church.
A view of the lavish interior of St. Polycarp church. This mural depicting the martydom of St. Polycarp was drawn by the local architect Raymond Péré, as is seen with his signature on the lower left edge of the painting, and in addition, the man with the moustache is believed to be this architect’s self portrait.
One of the oldest standing churches in Izmir, the St Polycarp church still acts as one the chief centres of the local Catholic diocese.
St. Polycarp Church, Izmir,
This church is located at the intersection of Gaziosmanpaþa Blvd. And Necatibey Blvd. On the way from Cumhuriyet Square to Basmane. The building was built in 1625 in honour of St. Polycarp, who was killed in A.D. 155 in Kadifekale at the age of 86 because of his strong beliefs and faith. It is Ýzmir’s oldest church and is open to the public every day throughout the year.
Saint Polycarp Church is the oldest church in Izmir not to be missed.
St. Polycarp Church is worth a visit if you are in the area. The frescos are magnificient. Unfortunately the lighting inside the church is a little harsh.
It was Easter Sunday morning, I was returning to my hotel from a walk and by chance came across St Polycarps. The Church is enclosed by a high wall and seems to remain closed most of the time and only opens on important days. It was my lucky day as there was a Mass for Easter Sunday and I managed to gain entry into this spectacular Church.
The Church is beautiful, the Mass was said in many different languages and it felt a privilege to have been part of it. I spent quite a long time taking beautiful photos of this ancient Church. There is an intercom system in the side road but even though I used it, nobody answers.
There are huge gates which lock the building, hopefully any traveller wanting to see this sight will have the opportunity, try knocking on these gates as sometimes there is a gardener in the grounds. Learn some basic Turkish, it may be in your favour to gain entry.