Saint Polycarp Church, Izmir
Interior of the St. Polycarp Church, Izmir.
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.
- Polycarp of Smyrna - Patron Saints Index
- St Polycarp - Catholic Encyclopedia
- Izmir Travel Forum - TripAdvisor
