All archaeology museums to visit in Istanbul

Uncover the secrets of the past at 6 archaeology museums in Istanbul. These museums feature artifacts and exhibits that reveal the history of ancient civilizations.

Are you curious about ancient civilizations and archaeological finds? Here are the archaeology museums you must see in Istanbul:

  1. The Chora1

    The Chora

     Istanbul
    The 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.
  2. Tiled Kiosk2

    Tiled Kiosk

     Istanbul
    The 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.
  3. Istanbul Archaeology Museums3

    Istanbul Archaeology Museums

     Istanbul
    The 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.
  4. Fethiye Museum4

    Fethiye Museum

     Istanbul
    The 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.
  5. Theodosius Cistern5

    Theodosius Cistern

     Istanbul
    The 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).
  6. İstanbul Üniversitesi Rıdvan Çelikel Arkeoloji Müzesi6

    İstanbul Üniversitesi Rıdvan Çelikel Arkeoloji Müzesi

     Istanbul
    The 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.