Ayayorgi Bay’s beauty threatened by new zoning regulations in Izmir: Turkish media

One of Izmir’s stunning natural wonders, Ayayorgi Bay, is set to undergo significant development following recent zoning changes.

The new plans pave the way for residential, commercial, and hotel construction, raising alarms over the area’s ecological balance.

The Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change has once again approved zoning changes for Ayayorgi Bay, located in the Dalyan and Sakarya neighborhoods of Cesme.

A previous attempt at rezoning was overturned by court rulings after legal action from Izmir Metropolitan Municipality and Cesme Municipality.

However, the ministry has now rezoned 372,000 square meters (4004174.6 square feet) of land, allocating 54% to residential and commercial use, while 22% is designated as green space.

Additionally, 33 acres of land—approximately 7,000 square meters—have been earmarked for hotel construction, further intensifying concerns over the future of the bay.

Legal battles continue as land sale approaches

Despite ongoing legal objections, state-owned real estate developer Emlak Konut has announced an auction for three plots of land covering nearly 48,000 square meters. The auction, scheduled for Feb. 27, will follow a “revenue-sharing in return for land sale” model.

The winning bidder will oversee the marketing and sale of the properties, sharing profits with Emlak Konut.

The development plan allows for 394 villa-style and two-story residential units, raising fears that the project will accelerate urbanization in the region.

Environmental groups and local activists argue that the changes threaten the unique character of Ayayorgi Bay, which is internationally renowned for its crystal-clear waters and lush green surroundings.

Strong opposition from environmental and urban planning groups

Several organizations, including the Izmir Chamber of City Planners, Cesme Environmental Association, and Gucucek Bay Natural Life Protection Association, have filed lawsuits to block the new zoning plan.

Ahmet Guler, head of the Cesme Environmental Association, has criticized the project, warning that the region’s touristic and natural value is at serious risk.

The bay, named after the historic Aya Yorgi (Saint Yorgi) Church, has long been a beloved destination for both local and international visitors. With its golden sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and scenic green hills, Ayayorgi Bay is considered one of the most picturesque locations in Türkiye.

A rich historical legacy under threat

The monastery in Cesme, named after Aya Yorgi (St. George), was built in the location where the saint was martyred by the Roman Empire during his efforts to spread Christianity.

This beautiful bay in Cesme takes its name from the monastery constructed here. Situated on an elevation offering a full view of the bay, the monastery ruins can be reached by a narrow path leading uphill on the right side of the Ayayorgi exit, approximately 100 meters from the starting point.

Around the monastery and in the nearby area, one can spot small houses made of Cesme stone. These were the residences of the nuns who lived there while the monastery was active. In ancient times, monks and nuns would reside in small, one-room houses around large monasteries.