Archaeological Museums

The İstanbul Arkeoloji Müzeleri, known as the Istanbul Archaeological Museums, is a complex of museums that comprises three main sections: The Archaeology Museum, The Museum of the Ancient Orient, and The Tiled Kiosk Museum. These three distinct units are situated within the same garden and house collections from the palace that were assembled in the late 19th century by Osman Hamdi Bey, a museum director, accomplished painter (known for “The Tortoise Trainer” at the Pera Museum), and archaeologist. The Istanbul Archaeological Museum, which is considered the first official museum in the history of the Ottoman Empire and Turkey, contains approximately one million artifacts from various cultures found within the imperial territories.

Archaeology Museum

The interest in collecting historical artifacts during the Ottoman period can be traced back to Mehmet the Conqueror’s reign. However, the establishment of museums as institutions began with the founding of Istanbul Archaeological Museums in 1869, known at that time as Müze-i Hümayun or Imperial Museum. This museum was created to house the archaeological works collected from Hagia Irene Church and served as the foundation for the Istanbul Archaeological Museum. Due to space limitations, the Tiled Kiosk, which was originally built during Mehmet the Conqueror’s reign, was converted into a museum as an extension of Hagia Irene. In 1880, after restoration work, it officially opened its doors under the administration of Istanbul Archaeological Museum.

A significant turning point in Turkish museology occurred when Osman Hamdi Bey took on the role of museum director in 1881. Under his leadership, notable excavations were carried out in Mount Nemrud, Myrina, Kyme, various Alolia Necropolises, and Lagina Hekate Temple. One of his most remarkable discoveries came from his excavation work in Sayda (Sidon) between 1887-1888. Osman Hamdi Bey unearthed the necropolis of King Sidon and brought back numerous sarcophagi to Istanbul, including the famous one believed to belong to Alexander the Great.

Photo Gallery

INFORMATION

Summer Period Hours
1 April – 31 October
Opening time: 09:00
Closing time: 20:00

Winter Period Hours
31 October – 1 April
Opening time: 09:00
Closing time: 18:30

Entrance Fee: 340 ₺

Address: Osman Hamdi Bey Yokusu Sokak, Gulhane,34122 Fatih/Istanbul
Email:istanbularkeoloji@ktb.gov.tr
Phone :+902125207740-41-42
Fax :+902125274300