St. Polycarp Church Izmir, Turkey
Although reconstructed in 1620, this church is the oldest in Izmir. It honors St. Polycarp, who was bishop of Smyrna and was martyred on a nearby hill in 155.
Overview
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.