Sirince Village in Turkey: The Quiet Neighbor of Kusadasi and Izmir - Village of Fruit Wine and History - Where The Jewelry for Movie Troy was Crafted
If you're seeking a break from the typical tourist spots in Turkey, Sirince, the tranquil mountain village near the ancient Greek city of Ephesus, should be at the top of your list. Welcome to a village where life appears to move at a leisurely pace.
Sirince, a picturesque village nestled in the Selcuk district of Izmir, is undeniably one of Turkey's most aesthetic villages. In all honesty, calling it a village doesn't do justice to the place; it has an artificial aspect that resembles more of a film set, as pointed out by a local acquaintance.
Walking Tour in Sirince
Historically, Sirince predates Christ (323 BC), likely founded by Ephesians in search of a serene mountain retreat. Today, with only 700 remaining inhabitants, tourism has become the primary source of income. Yet, fear not – Sirince remains a quiet, sleepy, yet charming village. Its charm lies in narrow streets, local shops, traditional houses, wines, and local agriculture.
Things to do in Sirince - Greek Village Near Ephesus
What makes Sirince exceptional is its proximity to Ephesus, one of Turkey's most visited attractions, making it a perfect addition to any Turkey itinerary.
Sirince is an ideal stop on a Turkish road trip, especially recommended after visiting Ephesus or as a day trip from Kusadasi (a 40-minute drive). However, the real magic of this hidden gem reveals itself when the sun sets.
The streets come alive with live music, and the terraces are filled with people enjoying dinner and sipping wine outdoors.
Greek Village Near Ephesus - Sirince Village
Sirince is a charming village with a fascinating history, stunning views, delectable food, warm hospitality, and more. It strikes the perfect balance between a traditional Turkish and Greek village. Interestingly, the town was once humorously named "Çirkince," meaning "ugly," as an ironic take on its actual beauty. The name was changed to Sirince in 1926 as people recognized the village's spectacular location and architecture.
How to get from Ephesus to Sirince?
Situated on a hill approximately 12 km from the ancient city of Ephesus and 85 km from Izmir, Sirince boasts unique architecture. Some houses are open to the public, allowing a close-up view of the village's architectural history. Preservation efforts ensure that any new buildings align with the village's aesthetic.
The village's hilltop location and fertile fields make it a haven for vineyards, olive orchards (with delightful local olive oil), and a variety of fruits like peaches, figs, apples, walnuts, and more.
Sirince is undeniably one of Turkey's most aesthetic villages, offering a serene escape with its captivating architecture, natural beauty, and cultural richness.
Reasons To Visit Sirince
The verdant embrace of nature in Sirince harmonizes seamlessly with the village's two-story architectural wonders. Viewed from a distance, Sirince resembles an exquisite painting, and as you approach, its homes captivate with an enchanting allure. The village streets, winding and cobbled, transport you to an era before cars and modern industry, a nostalgic journey through tim
Many of the businesses are run by outsiders, and the old stone mansions that were once home to families have mostly transformed into boutique hotels, restaurants, or cafes. Even the local produce on display at the villagers' stalls is not predominantly their own. It feels as if everyone is assembling at their set every morning, only to disband when the tourists leave in the evening.
But is it beautiful? The architecture, nature, ambiance—everything about it is indeed beautiful.
Sirince is already a touristy village, and it gained additional attention in 2012 due to the doomsday scenarios predicted by the Mayans. Allegedly, Sirince was supposed to be one of the two places on Earth that would survive the apocalypse.
Whether or not the apocalypse was imminent, it's certain that the gods bestowed something special upon Sirince:
Incredibly beautiful,
Thriving wine culture,
Home to the Mathematics Village and the Theatre Medrese,
Remarkably devoid of billboard clutter.
If you are someone who prefers serene yet lively places to unwind, this is the perfect spot. It's like a setting made for writing a book. In fact, if memory serves right, Paulo Coelho began writing "The Zahir" right here.
Sirince is a place where you can relax your mind but also enjoy a vibrant atmosphere. It's a haven for those who seek tranquility intertwined with a touch of excitement, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical richness.
A Journey through History of Sirince Village - From “Çirkince” to Sirince
Did you know that Sirince had an old name, and it was once called "Çirkince"? In fact, the village's name used to be "Kirkinca," and after the population exchange, the Turks started calling it "Çirkince." However, this name didn't quite capture the true beauty of the village. Ironically, the name that ended up fitting this charming village perfectly was "Sirince," meaning 'pleasant,' 'lovely,' and 'sweet.'
Exploring the history of Sirince is a fascinating experience, especially considering the evolution of its name. Prior to 1926, when the Governor of Izmir officially changed the village's name, it was known as "Çirkince," translating to 'ugly' or 'unsightly.' Quite the opposite of what this picturesque village truly is!
However, Sirince, as it is known today, is not just about its name; it encapsulates a rich history. Although archaeologists have discovered ancient pottery in the region, much of Sirince's architectural heritage reflects Ottoman Christian influences, as it was originally an Orthodox village.
Beyond the architectural charm seen in the houses, many of which now serve as boutique hotels or guesthouses, the presence of two churches attests to Sirince's Orthodox past. Sirince's history is like a treasure trove, enriched by the textures of its past, carrying the imprints of time.