Edirne’s 15th-century Gazi Mihal Hammam to be reimagined as fragrance or cheese museum

The historic Gazi Mihal Hammam, a 15th-century Ottoman structure in Edirne, is set to undergo a remarkable transformation into either a fragrance museum or a cheese museum, according to Edirne Governor Yunus Sezer.

Landmark of cultural and historical significance

Speaking to journalists, Governor Sezer emphasized the historical and cultural importance of the hammam, which serves as a notable landmark for travelers entering Türkiye from Europe. Restoration efforts, currently underway, aim to preserve its legacy while repurposing it as a museum.

“Due to its significance, we initiated comprehensive restoration work. Once completed, the hammam will be redesigned as a museum,” Sezer explained.

Vision for fragrance museum

Governor Sezer revealed ongoing discussions with a cosmetic company to transform the hammam into a fragrance museum, a concept gaining the most attention. “We plan to enhance the surrounding landscape, including the area extending to the Tunca River,” he stated.

Sezer elaborated on the vision: “In collaboration with the company, we hope to create a museum similar to the one in Paris. It will showcase scents cultivated in Türkiye, such as rose and lavender, alongside fragrances used since the Ottoman era. Additionally, we envision a small gastronomic area offering traditional beverages and presentations by staff in regional attire.”

Alternative idea: Cheese museum

An alternative proposal for the historic hammam is to establish a cheese museum. Highlighting Edirne’s prominence in cheese production, Sezer explained, “Edirne has been a significant center for cheese-making throughout history. We could create a museum showcasing the production stages of Edirne’s cheeses and Balkan cheese varieties, complete with tasting and retail spaces.”

Legacy of Gazi Mihal Hammam

Located along the Tunca River, the Gazi Mihal Hammam was constructed in 1422 by Gazi Mihal Bey, a member of the Mihalogullari, a prominent family during the early Ottoman period. Built with cut stone and brick, the hammam’s walls have retained their original condition over the centuries.

Part of a larger complex that includes the Gazi Mihal Mosque and Imaret Bridge, the hammam ceased operations after the Russian occupation of Edirne in 1829.

This ambitious project seeks to revive the historic structure’s cultural relevance, offering visitors a unique journey into Edirne’s rich heritage.