Sultan Selim III, Sultan Mustafa III tombs reopen in Istanbul after restoration

Sultan Selim III and Sultan Mustafa III Tombs, restored by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, were officially reopened in a grand ceremony.

The ceremony, held in Laleli, Istanbul, was attended by Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism Gokhan Yazgi, Istanbul Technical University Rector professor Ismail Koyuncu, Provincial Director of Culture and Tourism Coskun Yilmaz, and numerous citizens.

‘Tombs bearing marks of Seljuk, Ottoman eras’

In his speech, Deputy Minister Yazgi emphasized the significance of the tombs in Turkish-Islamic architecture, stating: “Tombs bearing the marks of the Seljuk and Ottoman eras are the cornerstone of Turkish-Islamic architecture. Istanbul is among our most important cities because of these tombs. Restoring these tombs is a debt we owe to our ancestors. These structures are exquisite works of art, notable for their architectural designs, decorative arts, and structural integrity.”

Provincial Director of Culture and Tourism Coskun Yilmaz highlighted Sultan Mustafa III’s contributions to the Ottoman modernization efforts.

“Sultan Mustafa III played a significant role in the modernization of the Ottoman Empire. He named his son Selim out of admiration for Yavuz Sultan Selim. Sultan Selim III was a well-educated and diligent sultan but, tragically, one of the few in history betrayed and wronged by his own people.” he added.

Projects, future plans

Deputy Minister Yazgi shared details of the “Respect for Ancestors, Revival of Art” project, which identifies and restores derelict tombs in various parts of Istanbul, adding: “I congratulate the technical team involved in the restoration. They treated these tombs as if they were their own homes. There was also an outbuilding complex here.”

“We plan to enhance it with artistic and cultural activities that align with the place’s spirit. Sultan Mustafa III envisioned the Suez Canal. As the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, we aim to complete the maintenance, repair, and conservation of 124 tombs by the end of 2026.”

Following the opening speeches, Quran recitations and prayers were held inside the tombs.

The restoration efforts led by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism are seen as a tribute to the rich history and architecture of the Ottoman era.

The reopening of Sultan Selim III and Sultan Mustafa III Tombs marks a significant step in preserving our historical heritage.