Are you curious about ancient civilizations and archaeological finds? Here are the archaeology museums you must see in Istanbul:
1The Chora
IstanbulThe Chora Church, also known as Kariye Camii in Turkish, is a significant historical site in Istanbul. This medieval Byzantine church was originally built around 550 AD. It underwent several transformations over the centuries, becoming a mosque in the 16th century. From 1945 to 2020, it served as a museum, showcasing its rich history and stunning Byzantine mosaics. However, since 2020, it has been reconverted into a mosque. 2Tiled Kiosk
IstanbulThe Tiled Kiosk, known in Turkish as Çinili Köşk, is a historical pavilion that is part of the Topkapı Palace complex. Dating back to 1472, as indicated by the tile inscription above the main entrance, it was constructed by the Ottoman sultan Mehmed II. The pavilion is located in the outermost parts of the palace, adjacent to Gülhane Park. 3Istanbul Archaeology Museums
IstanbulThe Istanbul Archaeology Museum, known in Turkish as İstanbul Arkeoloji Müzeleri, is situated in the Eminönü district of Istanbul. It is conveniently located near Gülhane Park and the Topkapı Palace/Museum, making it an accessible destination for tourists exploring the city. 4Fethiye Museum
IstanbulThe Fethiye Museum, situated in the Fethiye district of Muğla province, began its operations in 1962. It is a significant cultural institution that houses a vast collection of archaeological artifacts and findings from Dalaman, Fethiye, Ortaca, Köyceğiz, and Seydikemer. 5Theodosius Cistern
IstanbulThe Theodosius Cistern, or Şerefiye Sarnıcı as it is known in Turkish, is a significant historical site in Istanbul, Turkey. This covered cistern is a relic from the era of Byzantine Constantinople, offering a glimpse into the city's rich past. It is located in the Binbirdirek neighborhood, within the historic district of Fatih, west of the Philoxenos Cistern, near the town hall of the former Eminönü district. The entrance to the restored building is on Piyer Loti Caddesi (Pierre Loti Street). 6İstanbul Üniversitesi Rıdvan Çelikel Arkeoloji Müzesi
IstanbulThe collection of the Rıdvan Çelikel Archaeology Museum is composed of archaeological artifacts from various regions of Turkey. These artifacts span a wide range of periods, from the Neolithic Age to the Byzantine Period, providing a comprehensive overview of the country's rich archaeological history.