The notion that Homer was from an area within Türkiye is being reassessed in light of written sources and archaeological finds.
Experts say there is no definitive archaeological proof, but accounts by ancient authors, depictions on Smyrna coins and a statue of Homer found at Klaros, an archaeological site in Türkiye's Aegean province of Izmir, suggest the ancient city may have been associated with Homer.
Visitors view the reconstructed statue of Homer, highlighting renewed attention to the centuries-old debate over the legendary poet's birthplace, Izmir, Türkiye, Aug. 24, 2026. (AA Photo)
The release of Christopher Nolan’s film "The Odyssey," adapted from Homer’s epic poem, has once again drawn attention to the celebrated poet.
Homer is believed to have lived in the eighth century B.C. and is known for the "Iliad" and the "Odyssey." In the works of authors including Herodotus, Strabo and Pausanias, he is described as being from Smyrna, the ancient name of Izmir.
