This is one of the many statues representing "freedom" to the people of Izmir who seemed to be very proud of that -- their own freedom that is.

“Recently” (about 20 years ago) an archeological ‘find’ was discovered right in the heart of the city some two meters underground.  The site continues today to be uncovered and the broken pieces put together.  From above ground the site was already impressive; however, it was after we descended the stairs to the underground that we became truly impressed.  You could almost feel the lives of those who walked the streets of ancient Izmir, gathered water at the community well, and lived a life very different from ours today.

The journey continues.....

N & N