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Known as the harbor city of Colophon and its link to the sea, the site of ancient Notion,
is 30 km north of Kusadasi on the Kusadasi-Seferihisar coastal highway, within
the borders of the seaside village- Ahmetbeyli of Izmir. Located on top of the hill of
Ahmetbeyli Beach, the city covers an area of 500x1000 meters on two adjoining hills to
the east of the beach. |
The early settlements of Notion dates back to the 6th century BC. During the
Peloponnasian Wars- the dreadful wars between Helens during the years of 431-404 BC,
Notion played a significant role, serving as the naval base of Athenians. The numerous
wars between Spartans& Athenians were to colonize the coastal towns of Anatolia and
ended with the loss of Athenians. The harbor of Notion was considered as alternative to
the harbor of Ephesus but did not become as popular as Ephesus, during the time.
In 334 BC, the city was invaded by Alexander the Great. Following his death, Lysimakhos,
the founder of the New Ephesus, deported most of the inhabitants to Ephesus
and Lebedus. Part of the remaining population emigrated to Notion, which hence forth
was called "Neo Colophon" . During the Roman times, the city entered upon a new era
of prosperity both in commerce and social life. Temples, agoras, and bouleuterions,
buildings housing social activities were built throughout the period. Towards the end of the
Roman era, the harbor of Notion lost its prior importance as it was getting filled. During
the Byzantine era, Notion was within the borders of Asian Province and remained as
the bishopric until the Middle Ages. |
Systematic excavations in Notion started in 1921-22 by a French team conducted by
C. Picards, R.Demargel and A.Laumonier. During the serious excavations,
Sanctuary of Athena was unearthed. The excavations of the city theatre and the northern
necropolis was started by a team under the supervision of Prof. E. Atalay in the years
of 1985-86, but canceled by the sudden death of Prof. E. Atalay. In 1992, a
project - also supported by the Ministry of Culture, Grand Circle Foundation of the USA
and Ludwig Institute of Monument Research (Vienna), was started in order to remove the
thick cover of vegetation that had caused great damage to the remains of the city and
to explore the unknowns about Notion.
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How to Go?… The ancient Notion is 30 km north of Kusadasi. Kusadasi-Seferihisar
minibuses, departing every 30 minutes..
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Historical Places 
