< Back to all clusters
[CULTURE] · Türkiye · 3 sources

started · updated

Part of situation: (2 clusters)

İzmir Clock Tower marks 125 years of history and mechanical function

The İzmir Clock Tower, a prominent symbol located in Konak Square, has stood for 125 years, witnessing the city's evolution through earthquakes and urbanization. Designed by French architect Raymond Charles Péré, the structure features North African and Andalusian architectural influences. Its construction utilized stones from Sarayköy, Denizli, and marbles brought from Marseille.

The tower stands 21.12 meters tall on an 81-square-meter base. It includes a four-step marble platform, an octagonal pedestal, and fountains with horseshoe-arched basins.

Despite the passage of time, the tower's original mechanical clock system remains functional. Located below the fourth floor, the mechanism uses 22 gears and operates on the principles of weight and gravity to power four 75-centimeter diameter clocks facing different directions. The system is wound every six days and undergoes periodic maintenance every three months. Since 1994, the maintenance of this mechanism has been managed by third-generation clockmaker Feti Pamukoğlu.

Entities

Feti Pamukoğlu · Konak Square · Raymond Charles Péré · İzmir Clock Tower