Historic US embassy building in Ankara sold to real estate firm
An aerial image shows the US embassy complex, in Ankara, Türkiye, Feb. 4, 2013. (AA Photo)
Istanbul-based real estate firm TY Gayrimenkul has purchased the historic U.S. Embassy building in Ankara along with its 23-decare plot comprising four parcels, which served as the residence for U.S. envoys from 1930 until the embassy’s relocation in 2022, according to Turkish media reports.
The U.S. Embassy officially relocated its operations to a newly constructed building in the Cukurambar district on Aug. 29, 2022. The move marked the end of an era for the iconic premises on Ataturk Boulevard, which had served as the embassy’s home for over nine decades.
The original building, recognized for its historical and cultural significance, was designated a third-degree archaeological site because of its unique architecture and enduring legacy in the city.
Value of historic building remains confidential
Semsettin Hanci, chairman of Ashan Group which incorporates TY Gayrimenkul, confirmed to business-based patronlardunyasi.com that the sale was finalized 30 to 40 days earlier, with the official protocol signed a month ago.
However, diplomatic procedures between the foreign ministries of Türkiye and the U.S. delayed the process. Hanci noted that the title deed was handed over the week of Nov. 11.
Hanci did not disclose the sale price. “It cost a significant amount, but we are bound by a confidentiality agreement, so I cannot provide any details.”
Regarding plans for the site, Hanci explained: “We currently have no finalized projects for the land and building. We intend to proceed in consultation with the urban dynamics of the area. Our goal is to develop a project that benefits Ankara. This is a very special location, a once-in-a-century opportunity. We decided to acquire it without committing to a specific project because of its prime land status.”
TY Gayrimenkul is a real estate firm established by the Trabzon-rooted Hanci family four years ago, and has become part of the Ashan Group. The group is a longstanding enterprise providing catering services for Türkiye’s major projects over the past 30 years and employs over 5,000 staff.
