Izmir’s most active private art institute. Formerly home to the French Consulate, the white-marble building was turned over by the French government to Arkas Holding for a period of 20 years on the condition that it be restored and used for cultural and artistic purposes. Arkas Art Centre opened in November 2011.

Located on the Kordonboyu, the promenade the runs along the shore, this remarkable building is one of the few left from its time. Others, like the Izmir Opera Building (Le Grand Theatre de Smyrne), which stood right next door, were destroyed in the 1904 earthquake or the 1922 fire.

The collection of Lucien Arkas, featuring modern and contemporary Turkish art, is permanently on display. The art centre also hosts two to three visiting exhibitions each year.