Seyyid Kutbiddin Cemetery in Türkiye’s Samsun opens doors to public post restoration

A significant restoration effort has begun in Samsun, where the tombstones and headstones of the Sheikh Seyyid Kutbiddin Cemetery, one of the most important Turkish-Islamic burial sites in Anatolia, are being uncovered and restored.

This is part of the “Sheikh Seyyid Kutbiddin Cemetery Historical Tombstones Restoration and Opening to Visitors” project.

Unveiling rich history of Sheikh Seyyid Kutbiddin Cemetery

Located in the Ilkadim district of Samsun, Sheikh Seyyid Kutbiddin Cemetery is home to nearly 250 monumental graves and headstones, making it one of the most significant Turkish-Islamic cemeteries in Anatolia.

As part of the restoration project, initiated by Samsun Metropolitan Municipality (SBB), efforts have been made to renew the cemetery’s surrounding wall, remove dangerous dead trees, and preserve monumental headstones and markers. The project also includes cleaning and restoring the cemetery’s surroundings.

Preservation and display of Seljuk and Ottoman-era monuments

The second phase of the project, which received approval from the Monument Conservation Board, will involve the restoration and preservation of certified graves, tombstones, and headstones from the late Seljuk and early Ottoman periods.

These artifacts will be displayed along pathways for visitors to appreciate after restoration work is completed. The aim is to protect the integrity of the cemetery while allowing for public engagement with these historical pieces.

‘Restoration of 250 monumental headstones and markers’

Mahir Atik, Head of the SBB Cemeteries Department, emphasized the significance of the restoration work: “Sheikh Seyyid Kutbiddin Cemetery is an 800-year-old burial site from the late Seljuk and early Ottoman periods. The cemetery includes headstones and markers dating back to the Beylerbeyi era. We will restore nearly 250 monumental headstones and markers. Once restored, these headstones will be displayed along pathways, complete with their bases, so visitors can appreciate them.”

Atik also noted that further restoration efforts will focus on other monumental tombs within the cemetery, ensuring their preservation for future generations. Landscaping and lighting improvements will be carried out as part of the project, making the site a peaceful and historically rich place for visitors to explore.

Comprehensive surrounding renovation underway

Atik shared that the surrounding wall of the cemetery was in a state of disrepair, with many areas either collapsing or suffering significant damage.

In response, under the direction of Samsun Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Halit Dogan, the municipality began extensive renovations. The old walls have been replaced with new, durable ones that are in line with the project’s design.

Once the restoration is complete, Sheikh Seyyid Kutbiddin Cemetery will become a serene and accessible space where visitors can not only experience the rich historical heritage of Türkiye but also enjoy a tranquil environment.

The ongoing efforts to revitalize the site will ensure that it remains a vital cultural and historical landmark for years to come.