Forbes lists 10 ‘under-the-radar’ Turkish museums worth visiting
The "Gypsy Girl" mosaic at the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, Gaziantep, Türkiye, October 21, 2024. (AA Photo)
Türkiye is home to some of the world’s most remarkable collections, with famous museums like Topkapi Palace and the Istanbul Archaeology Museums attracting global attention. Yet, as noted by Forbes, there are hidden gems across the country that offer unique and immersive cultural experiences, often missed by travelers rushing to see the major attractions.
From ancient art and modern sculpture to quirky collections on hair and steam engines.
According to Forbes here are 10 Turkish museums that deserve a visit:
1. Baksi Museum (Bayburt)
Tucked away in the rolling hills of Eastern Anatolia, the Baksi Museum stands as a celebration of modern Turkish art and traditional handicrafts. Opened by renowned Turkish artist Hüsamettin Kocan in 2012, the museum offers stunning views of the Coruh River and features an intriguing blend of contemporary art alongside efforts to revive traditional crafts. It also runs workshops for local women and youth, helping to keep ancient techniques alive.
The museum’s futuristic architecture has earned it the “Council of Europe Museum Award.”
2. Troy Museum (Tevfikiye)
Finally, the ancient city of Troy has a museum that lives up to its legendary status. Opened in 2018, the Troy Museum offers a modern home for artifacts from the site and surrounding areas.
This remarkable collection replaces the outdated exhibits at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the museum’s striking rust-colored cube displays a rich history of a city that flourished for over 4,000 years.
3. Istanbul Cinema Museum
Located in the historic Atlas movie house, the Istanbul Cinema Museum provides a fascinating look at Turkish cinema. Visitors can explore the history of Turkish film and movie stars, with interactive exhibits where you can star in your own short film.
Even those unfamiliar with the genre will find the museum’s collection captivating, offering insight into a rich film tradition that dates back to the Ottoman era.
4. CerModern (Ankara)
CerModern is Türkiye’s leading modern art museum, housed in a beautifully restored train station in Ankara. The collection spans contemporary Turkish and European art, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and multimedia works.
The museum’s dynamic exhibitions provide a creative and thought-provoking atmosphere for visitors.
5. Izmir Camlik Selcuk Railway Museum (Kusadasi)
Railway enthusiasts will be captivated by the Izmir Camlik Selcuk Railway Museum, which showcases 33 vintage locomotives, including one of Ataturk’s private carriages.
The oldest locomotive dates back to 1891, and visitors can marvel at the impressive turntable surrounded by 17 steam engines in this open-air museum, built along tracks laid in 1866.
6. Chez Galip Hair Museum (Avanos)
For something truly unique, head to the Chez Galip Hair Museum in Cappadocia, where over 16,000 locks of women’s hair are displayed in a cave-like basement beneath a ceramic shop.
Founded by potter Chez Galip in 1979, the museum holds a Guinness World Record for its bizarre collection, which began when a friend gave him a lock of her hair before moving away.
7. Sakip Sabanci Museum (Istanbul)
Set in a 1925 mansion overlooking the Bosphorus, the Sakip Sabanci Museum houses an exceptional collection of Ottoman paintings, Islamic calligraphy, and other rare treasures. The collection was built over three decades by Turkish business tycoon Haci Omer Sabanci, and the museum’s serene location makes it a peaceful retreat.
Visitors can also enjoy lunch at the MSA Culinary School Restaurant with stunning views of the Bosporus.
8. Zeugma Mosaic Museum (Gaziantep)
Home to the world’s largest collection of mosaics, the Zeugma Mosaic Museum is a must-see for art lovers. The museum, located in a converted tobacco factory, showcases stunning Greek and Roman mosaics recovered from the ancient city of Zeugma, including the famous “Gypsy Girl.”
With interactive touchscreen displays, the museum provides detailed insights into the history behind these exquisite works of art.
9. Kenan Yavuz Ethnographic Museum (Bayburt)
Dedicated to preserving Anatolian rural life, the Kenan Yavuz Ethnographic Museum in Bayburt displays an eclectic collection of artifacts from everyday life. From farm tools and kitchenware to beautifully decorated carpets and equestrian accessories, the museum offers a fascinating look at traditional Anatolian culture.
The museum also hosts concerts, festivals, and workshops, adding a dynamic cultural experience for visitors.
10. Turkish Hammam Museum (Beypazari)
For a deep dive into the history of Turkish bathhouse culture, visit the Turkish Hammam Museum in Beypazari. Housed in a 15th-century bathhouse, the museum focuses on the cultural significance of hammams throughout the ages, with particular emphasis on their role in wedding traditions.
Visitors can also browse the museum’s shop for modern-day hammam accessories.
Türkiye is home to a rich tapestry of unique museums, each offering immersive cultural experiences, from modern art and ancient history to quirky collections like the Chez Galip Hair Museum. These lesser-known gems provide a deeper insight into Türkiye’s diverse heritage and are definitely worth a visit.
