one of the celebrated philosophers of antiquity, and the great medical scholar Galen both came from Izmir.
This lovely city, which is also known for such unique pleasures of the palate as 'boyoz', 'kumru' and 'lokma', is as vibrant today as it was five thousand years ago. And the spirited atmosphere at Kemeralti, Alsancak and the Kordon is going to become even more lively in the days ahead when the 23rd World University Summer Games, the world's second largest sports event after the Olympics, are held in the city between 11 and 21 August. As the Main Sponsor of Transportation for Universiade 2005 Izmir, Turkish Airlines is supporting the historic event by ensuring that participants travel in comfort and safety.

"WORLD UNITY ON THE AEGEAN BLUE"
Anyone who goes to Izmir today will see kingfishers all over the place. This lovable bird who, with its red beak, white breast and turquoise blue wings, is as much a part of Izmir as the sea breeze itself, is the mascot of this year's 23rd Summer World University Games.