Etymology
The Origin of the Name Bornova
Four different theories on the 8,500-year naming journey of one of İzmir’s oldest settlements.
Thanks to Yeşilova Höyük, the oldest known settlement in İzmir, Bornova has a history stretching back 8,500 years. Throughout this long period, the name of the region has changed many times under the influence of the different civilizations that ruled it.
Referred to in historical sources by various names such as Prinobaris, Burunabar, Bîrunâbad, Burunabat, Burunova, and Burnova, this geography continues to exist today under the name “Bornova.” Below are the main theories regarding the origin of this name.
Theories
Prinobaris
Ancient Greek"Rough oak tree"
According to this theory, advocated by Bilge Umar and Prof. Dr. Ersin Doğer, the name derives from the expression "Prino Barys" found in the records of the Lembos Monastery.
Bîrunâbad
Persian"Outer city"
According to this view, conveyed by Cemal Saran and Evliya Çelebi, the name originates from either the Persian period or a Turkic tribe called the Bîrunis.
Burunova
Turkish"The plain on the cape"
According to Mübahat Kütükoğlu’s geography-based interpretation, the name derives from the region’s cape-like shape extending toward the sea.
Bornova
Present Day"A living name"
According to the most widespread folk interpretation, Burunova gradually became Burnova in everyday speech, and then evolved into Bornova.