Reviving legends: Troy Museum’s dynamic role in cultural heritage, modern art

The Troy Museum, a treasure trove of historical artifacts from one of the world’s most significant archaeological sites, continues to play a pivotal role in promoting contemporary art while celebrating the region’s rich cultural heritage.

In The Art Newspaper Türkiye‘s interview, museum director Ridvan Golcuk and the biennale’s artistic director, Seyhan Boztepe, discussed the museum’s mission and its connections to the upcoming 9th Canakkale Biennale.

Troy Museum: A historical crossroads

Located in Canakkale, the Troy Museum stands as a testament to the region’s historical significance, encompassing a legacy that spans from Neolithic coastal villages to the ancient city of Troy, the backdrop of the famed Trojan War narrated in Homer’s Iliad.

Golcuk emphasized the importance of this geographical intersection, noting that the area has been shaped by various cultures, including the Venetians, Byzantines, and Ottomans, alongside the military heritage of the Gallipoli Peninsula.

“Our collection represents a memory space for the city of Canakkale,” Golcuk stated. The museum aims to dissolve the “chronological walls” that often separate historical narratives, fostering a sense of cultural continuity across different eras.

A global museum brand

The museum is not only focused on preserving the past but is also striving to establish itself as a global cultural institution. “In 2019, I wrote a vision statement for the Troy Museum: ‘To be an inspiring global museum brand that adds value to its country,’” Golcuk shared.

The museum’s commitment to this vision has led to numerous accolades, including the Special Recognition Award at the 2020 European Museum of the Year Awards and various international collaborations.

Among the exciting projects is the Aeneas Cultural Route, developed with esteemed partners in Europe. Golcuk expressed hopes of showcasing the museum’s “Aeneas’s Migration” exhibition in Italy, further solidifying its international presence.

Highlighting intangible heritage

Beyond archaeology, the Troy Museum is also dedicated to emphasizing the importance of intangible heritage. Golcuk discussed the museum’s efforts to reintroduce forgotten culinary traditions tied to the region’s history. “Recently, we applied a recipe from Homer’s Iliad; we fermented goat milk with fig essence,” he noted.

“This food, known as teleme, has been completely forgotten in Canakkale. We aim to bring it back, emphasizing its significance in Anatolian gastronomy,” he added.

Community engagement

The museum’s connection to the local community is evident. Golcuk shared that the museum has reestablished the Hidirellez tradition in collaboration with villagers, revitalizing an important cultural celebration that had faded over time.

“We now celebrate Hidirellez together, organizing the entire program in collaboration with our village’s headman,” he stated.

The Troy Museum actively engages with visitors, particularly youth and senior citizens, by offering interactive displays and programs tailored to their needs. The museum’s strong social media presence reflects its commitment to fostering a vibrant community connection.

Curatorial focus on context

The Troy Museum carefully curates contemporary art events, ensuring they resonate with the museum’s context. Golcuk explained exhibitions like the upcoming “Aeneas’s Migration” and past showcases by artists such as Alparslan Baloglu and Halil Altindere were all produced in connection with the museum’s narrative.

As the Troy Museum prepares for the 9th Canakkale Biennale, it continues to bridge the past and present, showcasing the timeless relevance of cultural heritage and contemporary art.