Mehmet Akif Ersoy, born in 1873 in Istanbul, is a significant figure in Turkish literature, particularly known for his contributions to poetry. He captured the major tragedies of the late Ottoman period with his unique style, awakening the national conscience, and has been revered as the “National Poet.” Starting his journey in national literature with…
The history of the Maiden’s Tower, also known as Kız Kulesi, spans a rich and varied past from the 5th century BC to the present day. Initially thought to be used as a customs point for controlling and taxing ships coming from the Black Sea, the islet saw the construction of a defense tower in…
The Dolmabahçe Clock Museum, housed within the Dolmabahçe Palace in Istanbul, Turkey, is a unique and fascinating destination for those interested in the history and artistry of timekeeping. The museum’s collection predominantly features 19th-century clocks, with a smaller section representing the 18th century. Museum Highlights: French Clocks: The majority of the collection consists of French…
The Palace Collections Museum, located in the Imperial Palace Kitchens of Dolmabahçe Palace in Istanbul, is a significant cultural and historical site. This museum, built by Sultan Abdülmecid, showcases a vast collection of objects from the late Ottoman period, offering insight into the imperial lifestyle, art, and culture. Museum Highlights: Collections of Sultan Abdülhamid II:…
During the Ottoman period, flat and fragmented window glass could not be produced. At that time, the Doge of Venice gifted crystal Venetian mirrors to the sultan. The Sultan ordered these mirrors to be used in the construction of a palace, specifically requesting a palace that would suit the tall poplar-like mirrors. Hence, the palace…
Great Çamlıca Mosque Islamic Civilizations Museum The Museum of Islamic Civilizations, located in Istanbul, Turkey, is a notable institution dedicated to showcasing the rich heritage and contributions of Islamic civilization. Housed within the complex of the Büyük Çamlıca Mosque, which opened in 2019 as the largest mosque in Istanbul and Turkey, the museum offers an…
The Beykoz Glass and Crystal Museum, located in Istanbul, is a significant cultural site that showcases the history and artistry of Turkish glassmaking. This museum, set in the historical building of the Beykoz Imperial Glass and Crystal Factory, highlights the Ottoman Empire’s rich tradition in glass and crystal production. History of the Building: The museum…
The National Palaces Museum of Painting, located in the Apartment of the Heir Apparent at Dolmabahçe Palace, is an important cultural and historical site in Turkey. This building, a significant architectural symbol, was constructed during Sultan Abdülmecid’s reign and marked a new era of freedom for Ottoman heirs after the 1839 Reforms. It served as…
The Istanbul Air Force Museum, located in Yeşilköy, Istanbul, covers a sprawling area of approximately 65,000 m² and features both open and enclosed exhibition spaces. This museum holds a significant place in Turkish Aviation History, showcasing a wide array of aircraft, helicopters, communication devices, missiles, and other air and communication equipment, as well as weapon…
The Istanbul Harbiye Military Museum and Cultural Site, located on Vali Konağı Cad. No:2 in Harbiye, Şişli, Istanbul, is an important cultural and historical landmark. Occupying a significant area of 54,000 m² with a building space of 18,600 m², the museum complex is housed in what was originally the Mekteb-i Harbiye (Military Academy) building, constructed…
