İMM Mevlanakapı Police Station Visitor Center
İBB Mevlanakapı Karakolu Visitor Center, located in Fatih, Istanbul, is an exemplary cultural space that emerged from the restoration of the historical Kara Surları (City Walls). Managed by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality’s Cultural Heritage Department and İBB Heritage teams, the center is part of a broader initiative to transform key points along the 7.2 km length of the city walls into educational and information centers, contributing to tourism and highlighting the city’s development and defense systems.
Historical Background
- The Mevlanakapı Police Station, built in the 19th century, initially served to maintain security in the region, especially after the disbandment of the Janissaries in 1826 and the establishment of the Asakir-i Mansure-i Muhammediyye.
- According to oral sources, the building was repurposed as a residence in the 1930s, undergoing several modifications before eventually being abandoned.
Restoration and Current Use
- The restoration project focused on preserving the original materials, textures, and structural systems of the building, which had suffered significant deterioration, including a collapsed roof and wall facades.
- The revitalized space now serves as a visitor center, enhancing the cultural and historical significance of the area, particularly around the Edirnekapi, Silivrikapı, Mevlanakapı, and Sulukule gates.
Visitor Center and Library
- The visitor center houses a library with a book-cafe concept, offering a collection focused on history, architecture, urban studies, art, and Istanbul.
- With over 2000 books and a capacity to accommodate 50 readers, the library is a valuable resource for locals and tourists alike.
Visitor Information
- Operating Hours: Daily from 10:00 to 18:00
- Contact: 0212 233 47 23, [email protected]
- Address: Mevlanakapı Cad. Melek Hatun Mah. No: 1, Fatih, Istanbul
The İBB Mevlanakapı Karakolu Visitor Center is a notable example of historical preservation, blending the past and present to create a space that educates and enriches the community’s understanding of Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage.
