The Historical Elevator, one of the most distinctive historic buildings in Izmir, is both a city symbol and a unique point that links the past with the present. This guide provides all the answers to questions such as where the Izmir Historical Elevator is, how to get there, what the entrance fee is, and what is inside. If you are seeking historic sites to visit in Izmir, panoramic views, or a nostalgic walking route, the Historical Elevator in Izmir is perfect for you!
How to Visit Izmir Historical Elevator
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General Information about the Historic Elevator
The Historic Elevator was built in 1907 by Jewish businessman Nesim Levi Bayraklıoğlu. At that time, there was a height difference of approximately 58 metres between the two main streets in the Karataş district of Izmir. This height made the passage between the Halil Rıfat Paşa and Mithatpaşa neighbourhoods, two neighbourhoods connected to each other, seriously difficult.
In daily life, passage between these two neighbourhoods was only possible via a 155-step staircase. According to one account, one of Nesim Levi's close friends fell down these steep stairs and was seriously injured. In response to this incident, Levi had the elevator built for social benefit, without any profit motive, saying, 'People should be able to travel more easily and safely'.
With this feature, the Historic Elevator is considered to be one of the first large structures built with a sense of social responsibility in Izmir. It is also of great architectural importance as it is one of the rare examples of such vertical transport systems in Turkey in the early 20th century.
Architectural Structure and Technical Specifications
The Historical Elevator building consists of four main parts: the Elevator tower, the machine room, the upper terrace section and the entrance area. Red bricks specially brought from Marseille were used in the construction of the building. These red bricks both reflect the aesthetic details of the period architecture and contribute to the preservation of the historical silhouette of the building.
Initially, the lift system was hydraulic. However, in time, this system was replaced with electric lifts and modernised. Today, this building, which serves with two separate cabins, still preserves its original structure to a great extent. The interior design is characterised by wrought iron railings, wooden ceiling decorations and vintage lamps.
The inscriptions written in French and Hebrew at the entrance are a concrete indication of how this building was adopted by the multicultural Izmir society.
Myths and Legends of the Historical Elevator
Although there is no mythological story directly related to the Historic Elevator, the story of the building's construction has become an urban legend over time. In particular, the theme of ‘a structure built to help a person after a fall and injury’ gives the structure an emotional depth. In some accounts, it is also said that there was a movie theatre, studio or casino on the lower floors of the lift at the beginning of the 20th century.
Again, in some folk tales, a story of forbidden love that took place on the top floor of the lift is told from generation to generation. Such stories, the details of which are unclear, have caused the Historic Elevator to become not only a physical but also an emotional and narrative place of memory.
The Historical Elevator Today
Today, the Historical Elevator serves as a means of transport as well as a tourist and social centre. On the upper floor of the building, there is a large observation terrace, a panoramic view of Izmir Bay, a sunset viewing area and restaurant services. On this terrace, especially in the evening hours, watching the unique view where the sea and the city merge offers a unique experience.
The Historic Elevator can be visited free of charge every day of the week between 08:00 - 23:00. Both the use of the lift and the ascent to the upper floors are completely free of charge. The prices in the restaurant and cafe inside the building are average, but the view is worth the experience.
How to get to the Izmir Historical Elevator?
It is extremely easy to reach the Historical Elevator. You can reach it within 10-15 minutes on foot from Konak Square in Izmir city centre. Alternatively:
By IZBAN or Metro: You can get off at Konak or Çankaya station and walk.
Bus lines: Lines such as 202, 253, and 304 pass through Mithatpaşa Street.
By ferry: You can get off at Konak Ferry Pier and walk for about 15 minutes.
Passing through Dario Moreno Street to reach the Historical Elevator offers a nostalgic and artistic walking route. Passing through this street, especially in the afternoon, doubly enhances the atmosphere thanks to the light plays and street musicians.
Dario Moreno Street: Where Art, Nostalgia and Culture Meet
The road to the Historical Elevator passes through Dario Moreno Street. This street is named after Dario Moreno, a famous singer and actor of Turkish-Jewish origin. The trace left by Moreno in the field of music and cinema is kept alive in this street in a nostalgic way.
There is a statue of Moreno, Aegean houses decorated with colourful flower pots, boutique cafes, art workshops and souvenir shops. Dario Moreno Street offers an ideal ambience for Instagram photos and is a creative stop, especially for art lovers.
Other Places to See in Izmir
There are many historical and cultural sites in the immediate vicinity for visitors who want to spend time around the historical lift:
Kemeraltı Bazaar: It is the oldest and largest open-air shopping area in Izmir. You can find antique shops, spice shops and handmade products.
Konak Clock Tower: Built in 1901, this landmark is a must for a trip to Izmir.
Agora Ruins: This open-air museum, which harbours the ruins of the ancient city from the Roman period, offers an experience intertwined with history.
Hisar Mosque and Yalı Mosque: These mosques, which reflect the architecture of the Ottoman period, are worth visiting for those interested in religious buildings.
Izmir Archaeological Museum: It has a rich museum collection where many historical artefacts excavated from the region are exhibited.
There are also restaurants and patisseries offering flavours unique to Izmir. Especially flavours such as boyoz, gevrek, kumru and Izmir tulum are worth tasting.
