Diyarbakir’s historic Cardakli Hamam revitalized as center for traditional cuisine

Diyarbakir’s historic Cardakli Hamam, originally built between 1520 and 1540, is set to transform into a gastronomy gallery that will feature traditional foods while preserving its architectural heritage

The historic Cardakli Hamam, located in Diyarbakir’s Sur district and dating back to between 1520 and 1540, is undergoing transformation into a gastronomy gallery.

The restored bathhouse will soon showcase traditional foods, aligning with modern needs and the urban landscape.

Director of Diyarbakir Monuments and Museums, Cemil Koc, discussed the project’s aims. “We are adapting the Cardakli Hamam to modern needs by giving it a culinary function, thereby keeping it relevant in today’s urban landscape,” Koc said.

He emphasized the importance of this historic site, noting, “It is one of the seven remaining hamams out of an original twenty in the Sur district, making it a vital piece of our local history.”

Koc also detailed the hamam’s architectural significance. “The hamam boasts a star-shaped plan that fully captures the essence of Ottoman bath culture,” he explained. “It has specific areas for cold, warm, temperate, and hot treatments, along with a furnace, reflecting the comprehensive architectural features of our bath culture.”

The design incorporates an effective natural lighting system. “The interior benefits from natural light streaming through 310 ‘elephant eyes,’ which are openings in the dome and vaults,” Koc added.

Restoration efforts for the hamam began in July 2023 after it suffered structural damage from terror-related incidents in 2015 and recent earthquakes on February 6. The Culture and Tourism Ministry prioritized this project within its investment program, aiming for completion by October barring any further issues.

Source: Newsroom