Archaeology museums in Turkey

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.

The Ephesus Archaeological Museum, known as Efes Müzesi in Turkish, is situated in the town of Selçuk, which is in close proximity to Izmir, Turkey. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the region.

The Agora of Smyrna, also known as the Roman Agora, is a significant archaeological site in the city of Izmir, Turkey. This site is currently under excavation, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to witness the process of uncovering history. The Agora was a central public space in ancient Greek city-states, and the one in Smyrna is no exception. It was a place of assembly, where citizens would gather for military, political, and social activities.

The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is housed in a restored bazaar that was built between 1464 and 1471 under Mehmet II. This historical location adds to the charm and authenticity of the museum, making it a unique place to visit in Ankara, the capital of Turkey.

The Gaziantep Museum of Archaeology is conveniently located in the city center of Gaziantep, on İstasyon Street. This central location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city, and it is close to other attractions and amenities.

The Church of St. Nicholas of Myra, also known as Noel Baba Kilisesi in Turkish, is an ancient Greek Byzantine church. It is located in the city of Demre, which was formerly known as Myra, in the province of Antalya in Turkey. This historical site offers a glimpse into the rich history and religious significance of the region.

The Hagia Sophia, now known as the Hagia Sophia Museum, is an ancient Greek Orthodox church situated in the city of Trabzon, in northeastern Turkey. This historical site dates back to the 13th century, when Trabzon was the capital of the Empire of Trebizond. It is one of the few remaining Byzantine sites in the area, making it a significant landmark for those interested in history and architecture.

The Bursa Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art is a cultural institution located in the city of Bursa, Turkey. It offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history and heritage of Turkish and Islamic art and culture.

The İzmir Archaeological Museum is a significant cultural institution that houses a vast collection of archaeological artifacts discovered in and around the İzmir province. These artifacts provide a glimpse into the rich history and diverse cultures that have shaped this region over the centuries. The museum's collection includes items from various archaeological sites across the Aegean Region, including Bayraklı (Smyrna), Ephesus, Pergamon, Miletus, Clazomenae, Teos, and Iasos.

The Yesemek Quarry and Sculpture Workshop is an open-air museum and archaeological site located in Gaziantep Province, Turkey. This site was a quarry during Hittite times and is now a significant historical and cultural attraction. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the ancient Near East's largest known stonemasonry workshop.

The Pamukkale Archaeological Museum is a significant site where visitors can explore a wide range of historical artifacts. These include graves, statues, and small artifacts that have been excavated from underground. The museum provides a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history and culture of the region, offering a glimpse into the past through the tangible remnants of ancient civilizations.

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.

The Trabzon Museum, also known as Kostaki Mansion, is a historic house museum located in Trabzon, Turkey. It houses archeological and ethnographic exhibitions, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. The mansion was originally built in the early 1900s as a private residence and has since been transformed into a museum, making it a significant historical landmark in the city.

The Edirne Archaeology and Ethnography Museum is situated in the heart of Edirne, just 50 meters from the eastern gate of the Selimiye Mosque. It is conveniently located next to the area where Ottoman tombstones are exhibited, making it an accessible destination for tourists interested in exploring the rich history and culture of the region.

The Eskişehir Eti Archaeology Museum, also known as the Eskişehir Archaeology Museum, is a national archaeology museum located in Eskişehir, Turkey. It was established in 1974 and is situated in the center of Eskişehir on Atatürk Boulevard. The museum was initially housed in the Kurşunlu Complex, a religious complex building, before moving to its own building in 1974. As the original building became insufficient, a new, larger building was constructed and donated by ETİ Food Industry, a cookie producer based in Eskişehir. The museum reopened in its new location on 28 May 2011.

The Şanlıurfa Archaeology and Mosaic Museums are situated in the southeastern city of Şanlıurfa, Turkey. These museums house a vast collection of artifacts and remains from the ancient city of Şanlıurfa, also known as Edessa, and other significant archaeological sites in the region.

The Hatay Archaeology Museum, situated in Antakya, Turkey, is renowned for its vast collection of mosaics from the Roman and Byzantine Eras. These historical pieces provide a unique insight into the artistic practices and cultural narratives of these periods, making the museum a significant destination for those interested in archaeology and history.

The Mardin Museum is an archaeological and ethnographic museum situated in the province of Mardin. It is a significant cultural institution that reflects the historical and cultural richness of the region. The museum houses a vast collection of archaeological and ethnographic artifacts, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in history and culture.

The Karatay Madrasa is a historical structure from the Seljuk period, located in the Karatay district, Ferhuniye Neighborhood, Adliye Boulevard in Konya. It was constructed during the reign of II. İzzeddin Keykavus, between the years 1250-1251. This historical site offers a glimpse into the architectural style and educational practices of the Seljuk era.

The Çorum Museum, located in the heart of Çorum, is an archaeological and ethnographic museum. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the region through its extensive collection of artifacts.

The Bursa Archaeology Museum, which was established in 1904 as a branch of the Istanbul Archaeology Museum, holds a significant place in the history of Turkish museums. It is the third oldest museum in the country, following the Istanbul Archaeology Museum (1899) and the Konya Archaeology Museum (1902). This historical significance adds a layer of interest for visitors who are not only interested in the artifacts on display but also in the history of the institution itself.

The Gordion Museum is situated in the village of Yassıhöyük, within the Polatlı district of Ankara province. This unique location places it near the ancient city of Gordium, offering visitors a chance to explore both the museum and the historical city in one trip. The museum's location in a village, rather than a bustling city, provides a tranquil environment for tourists to immerse themselves in the rich history of the region.

The Amasra Museum is home to a wide range of archaeological artifacts and ethnographic items. Each year, the museum attracts more than 50,000 tourists who come to explore its rich collections.

The Burdur Museum, situated in the heart of Burdur city, is home to an impressive collection of over 57,000 archaeological and ethnographic artifacts. This vast collection offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history and culture of the region, spanning various periods and civilizations.

The Bozcaada Yerel Tarih Müzesi, located in Bozcaada, Çanakkale, was established by collector Hakan Gürüney in 2005. This museum is a testament to the rich history of the region and offers a unique insight into the local culture and traditions.

The Elazığ Archaeology and Ethnography Museum is located within the campus of Fırat University in Elazığ, Turkey. This location provides a unique setting for the museum, combining the academic atmosphere of the university with the rich historical and cultural heritage of the region.

Sırçalı Medrese, located in Konya, Turkey, is a historical Islamic school that dates back to the 13th century. It was constructed in 1242 during the reign of the Seljuk sultan Kaykaus II. This historical site offers a glimpse into the educational practices of the Islamic world during the Seljuk era.

The Giresun Museum is situated in the Zeytinlik neighborhood of Giresun, Turkey. This location is easily accessible and provides a great opportunity for tourists to explore the rich history and culture of the region.

The Side Museum is situated in the ancient city of Side. It was established through restorations made on a bath complex that was built during the Roman period. This historical context provides a unique backdrop for the museum and its exhibits, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

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.

As of the end of 2008, the Isparta Museum boasts a collection of 17,976 artifacts. This includes 2,953 archaeological pieces, 2,352 ethnographic items, and 1,2671 coins. This diverse collection offers visitors a comprehensive insight into the region's rich history and culture.

Kars Museum, located in the city of Kars, is the largest museum in the region. It was initially established in 1959 and later expanded to a larger facility in 1981. The museum houses a vast collection of archaeological, ethnographic, and stone artifacts, making it a significant institution among museums in the area.

The Sadberk Hanım Museum is a private institution situated in the Büyükdere neighbourhood of Sarıyer district in Istanbul, Turkey. It is located on the shores of the Bosphorus, offering a unique cultural experience in a scenic setting. The museum was established by the Vehbi Koç Foundation in memory of Vehbi Koç’s wife, Sadberk. It is open every day except Wednesdays, making it a flexible option for tourists planning their visit.

The Kayseri Archaeology Museum is situated in the Melikgazi district of Kayseri. The construction of the museum began in 1965 and it was officially opened to the public in June 1969.

The Antalya Museum, also known as the Antalya Archaeological Museum, is one of the largest museums in Turkey. It is located in Konyaalti, Antalya, and covers an area of 7000 square meters. The museum houses an impressive collection of 5000 works of art, making it a significant cultural and historical site.

The Afrodisias Museum was established in 1979 with the purpose of displaying archaeological artifacts excavated from the ancient city of Afrodisias in Aydın. This museum is a testament to the rich history and culture of the region, offering visitors a chance to explore the past through the numerous artifacts on display.

The Bolu Museum is located in the city of Bolu, Turkey. This city was a significant part of the Bithynia kingdom in ancient times. The museum is a testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage.

Alanya Castle, a symbol of the district of Alanya in Antalya, is situated on a peninsula that rises about 250 meters above sea level. This strategic location offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, making it a popular spot for tourists. The castle's elevated position also played a crucial role in its historical function as a defensive structure.

The Aydın Archaeological Museum is an archaeological and ethnographic museum situated in the Efeler district of Aydın province in Turkey. It houses a vast collection of archaeological and ethnographic artifacts from the region, providing a comprehensive insight into the history and culture of Aydın and its surroundings.

The Alanya Archaeological Museum, located in Alanya, Turkey, is a significant destination for those interested in archaeology and ethnography. The museum is divided into two sections, each dedicated to showcasing a variety of archaeological and ethnographic artifacts. This division allows visitors to explore and understand the rich history and culture of the region in a structured manner.

The Batman Museum boasts a collection of 450 items, which are organized into three exhibition halls. The first hall covers the Paleolithic and Neolithic periods, the second hall displays items from the Ilısu Dam excavations, and the third hall showcases items from the city of Hasankeyf.

The Bergama Archaeological Museum, also known as Bergama Müzesi, is situated on Cumhuriyet Caddesi, the main street of Bergama city in the Turkish province of İzmir. It is approximately one kilometer southwest of the Red Hall and two kilometers south of the Acropolis. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city.

The Mardin Museum, located in Mardin, is an archaeological and ethnographic museum that reflects the historical and cultural richness of the region. It houses collections that showcase the diverse history and culture of the area, making it a significant destination for those interested in learning more about the region's past.

The Konya Archaeological Museum is a state-run archaeological museum located in Konya, Turkey. It was established in 1901 and has been relocated twice before settling in its current location in 1962. The museum is one of eight state-owned museums in Konya and is situated in the interior of the city, accessible via narrow lanes on Sahip Ata Caddesi.

This museum was created in 1948 in the ruins of ancient ruins of Kyzikos. The local findings from Hellenistic and Roman era are on display.

The Milas Museum, located in the Muğla Province of Turkey, is a dedicated space for the exploration of archaeology and ethnography. This museum offers a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich history and culture of the region, showcasing a variety of artifacts and exhibits that reflect the area's past.

The İzzet Koyunoğlu City Museum is situated in the Topraklık Mahallesi district of Konya. It was founded by A.R.İzzet Koyunoğlu, who belonged to one of the city's most established families. This museum is a testament to the rich history and culture of Konya, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's past through its extensive collection.

The Trabzon Museum, also known as Kostaki Mansion, is a historic house museum located in Trabzon, Turkey. It houses archeological and ethnographic exhibitions, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. The museum is situated in a mansion that was built in the early 1900s and has served various purposes over the years, from a private residence to a military headquarters, before being transformed into a museum.

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.

Aslantepe Tumulus, alternatively referred to as Arslantepe, is a significant archaeological site in Turkey. This 5,000-year-old tumulus is situated in the Malatya Province, within the Eastern Anatolia Region. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the region.

The Archaeological Museum Malatya, also known as Malatya Müzesi in Turkish, is conveniently located near the city center of Malatya. It is situated at a square at the end of Fuzuli Caddesi, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city.

The Kırklareli Museum is a national museum located in Kırklareli, Turkey. It showcases a variety of exhibits, including natural history specimens, ethnographical items that reflect the region's cultural history, and archaeological artifacts discovered in and around the city. These diverse collections provide a comprehensive overview of the region's rich and varied history.

The Adana Archaeology Museum is located in Adana and is home to the historical heritage of Cilicia. The museum is housed in a converted textile factory, providing a unique setting for the display of its collections. The museum's exhibits span various periods, from the Hittite period to the Ottoman era, offering a comprehensive view of the region's rich history.

The Boğazkale Museum, situated in the district center of Boğazkale, southwest of Çorum, is a significant destination for those interested in the Hittite period. The museum primarily showcases artifacts from this era, providing a comprehensive insight into the history and culture of the Hittites.

The Afyonkarahisar Archaeological Museum, also referred to as the Afyon Museum, is an archaeological museum located in Afyonkarahisar, Turkey. It is a significant cultural institution that showcases a wide range of artifacts from different historical periods and civilizations.

The Dilek Peninsula-Büyük Menderes Delta National Park is situated at the final stretch of the Dilek Mountain extending into the Aegean Sea, within the boundaries of Aydın province. The park spans a total area of 27,675 hectares. Of this total area, 10,985 hectares were declared a National Park in 1966, while the remaining 16,690 hectares were declared a National Park in 1994.

The Eskişehir Republic History Museum, also known as the Anadolu University Republic History Museum, is situated in the Odunpazarı region. This museum was inaugurated by Anadolu University on April 23, 1994. It offers a unique opportunity to delve into the history of the Republic era of Turkey.

The Yakutiye Madrasa, located in Erzurum, Turkey, is a significant historical site that dates back to 1310. It was constructed under the patronage of Emir Hoca Cemalettin Yakut during the reign of the Ilkhanate ruler Olcaytu. This historical monument stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the era and offers a glimpse into the rich history of the region.

The Kütahya Archaeological Museum is situated in Kütahya, Turkey. It is housed in the historical Vacidiye Medrese, an Islamic school building that was commissioned by the Germinyanid ruler Umur in 1314. This location adds a layer of historical significance to the museum, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in history and architecture.

The Troy Museum, also known as Troya Müzesi or Truva Müzesi in Turkish, is an archaeological museum situated in the northwestern region of Turkey. It is conveniently located near the archaeological site of the ancient city of Troy, making it an ideal destination for those interested in exploring the rich history and culture of this ancient city.

The Konya Ereğli Museum, located in the Ereğli district of Konya Province in Turkey, is a museum dedicated to archaeology and ethnography. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the region, from the Neolithic age to the Republican period of Turkey.

The Sinop Archaeological Museum, situated in the city of Sinop, is a national museum that showcases a wide array of archaeological artifacts discovered in the city and its surrounding areas. The museum is a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region, offering visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the past and gain a deeper understanding of the civilizations that once thrived here.

The İznik Museum, located in the İznik district of Bursa province, is a significant cultural institution that showcases archaeological artifacts discovered in and around İznik. The museum houses a vast collection of around 1500 artifacts, with some dating back to 6500 BC. This wide range of historical items provides a comprehensive overview of the region's rich and diverse past.

Marmaris Castle, situated in the Marmaris district of Muğla, holds a significant place in history. It was reconstructed by the Ottoman Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent during his campaign to Rhodes. This historical monument offers a glimpse into the strategic importance of the region during the Ottoman era.

The museums house a wide range of archaeological remains, including those from Şanlıurfa, known as Edessa in ancient times, Göbekli Tepe, Karahan Tepe, and Harran. They also feature findings from the Southeastern Anatolia Project and ruins discovered in the hydroelectric dam reservoirs of Atatürk Dam, Birecik Dam, and Karkamış Dam.

The Panorama 1453 Historical Museum, located in Istanbul, is a significant historical site that opened its doors to the public on 31 January 2009. The museum is dedicated to showcasing the conquest of the city of Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire, by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror on 29 May 1453.

The Abdülaziz Av Köşkü, also known as Kasr-ı Hümayun, is a pavilion located in İzmit that showcases baroque and empire-style architecture. This structure is unique as it is the only small palace that was built outside of Istanbul during the Ottoman Empire. This historical significance adds to the appeal of the pavilion for tourists interested in Ottoman architecture and history.

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).

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.

The Kastamonu Archaeology Museum is a place where you can see archaeological artifacts collected from the Kastamonu and Çankırı region. These artifacts provide a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.

The Tekirdağ Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography is a national museum located in Tekirdağ, Turkey. It showcases a wide range of archaeological artifacts discovered in and around the province. Additionally, the museum also exhibits ethnographical items that provide insights into the region's cultural history.

The Diyarbakır Archaeological Museum, situated in the city of Diyarbakır, was first opened to the public in 1934. This museum is the first of its kind in Diyarbakır and has been serving the public for over eight decades, providing a deep insight into the region's rich history and culture.

The Uşak Museum of Archaeology, located in Uşak in western Turkey, was established on May 23, 1970. This museum is a significant destination for those interested in archaeology and history, offering a unique insight into the region's past.

The Akşehir Museum, also known as the Nasrettin Hoca Archaeology and Ethnography Museum, is a national museum located in the Akşehir district of Konya Province in central Turkey. It is a significant cultural and historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and heritage of the region.

The Burhaniye National Forces Culture Museum is situated in the Burhaniye district of Balıkesir Province in western Turkey. This location is easily accessible and offers a rich cultural experience for tourists interested in Turkish history and culture.

The Çankırı Museum, situated in Çankırı, Turkey, began its operations on June 9, 1972. It initially opened its doors to the public with an exhibition of 116 artifacts that were collected from the region. This historical establishment provides a glimpse into the rich cultural and historical heritage of the area.

The Nevşehir Museum is situated in the heart of Nevşehir, Turkey. This region is renowned for its unique geological formations known as 'fairy chimneys', and it serves as the provincial center of the ancient region of Capadocia. The museum's location offers visitors the opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of this fascinating area.

The Karatepe-Aslantaş Open-Air Museum is a unique outdoor museum located in the Osmaniye Province of Turkey. It is situated within the Karatepe-Aslantaş National Park, offering visitors a chance to explore historical artifacts in a natural setting. The museum is named after the location, Karatepe, which translates to 'black hill', and Aslantaş, meaning 'lion stone', referring to the lion figure on stone sculptures found in the area.

The Konuralp Museum is situated in the province of Düzce, Turkey. It is located in the town of Konuralp, which has now almost merged with the capital, effectively making it a suburb. This location provides easy access for visitors, making it a convenient destination for those interested in exploring the rich history and culture of the region.

The Adıyaman Archaeological Museum is situated in the heart of Adıyaman, a city in southeastern Turkey. It is conveniently located at the intersection of Atatürk Boulevard and Cumhuriyet Avenue, making it easily accessible for visitors. The museum specializes in archaeology, showcasing a variety of artifacts and historical items from the surrounding area.

The Silifke Museum, also known as Silifke Müzesi, is situated in the southern Turkish city of Silifke, in the province of Mersin, in the region known as ancient Cilicia. This location is steeped in history, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in exploring the past.

The Aksaray Museum, originally established in the historic Zinciriye Madrasa in 1969, was relocated to a new building in 2004. This move was necessitated by the increasing number of artifacts collected from the archaeological excavations at Acemhöyük, Aşıklı Höyük, Musular, and Güvercinkayası Höyük. The new location provides ample space to display these valuable pieces of history.

Kaymakli Underground City is a historical site located within the citadel of Kaymakli in the Central Anatolia Region of Turkey. It is situated approximately 19 kilometers from Nevşehir, on the Nevşehir- Niğde road. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the region.

The Archeological Museum of Manisa is a significant part of the Manisa Museum, located in the historic kulliye of the Muradiye Mosque. This setting provides a unique blend of history and culture, offering visitors a chance to explore the rich past of the region.

The Çeşme Museum is located within the Çeşme Castle in the district of Çeşme, İzmir Province, Turkey. This general interest museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the region within the historic walls of the castle.

The Söğüt Ertuğrul Gazi Museum, also known as the Söğüt Museum, is located in the Söğüt district of Bilecik Province in Turkey. This region is historically significant as it is the birthplace of the Ottoman Empire. The museum is named after Ertuğrul, the father of Osman I, who was the founder of the empire.

The Karadeniz Ereğli Museum, situated in the district of Karadeniz Ereğli in Zonguldak province, has been operating as an archaeology and ethnography museum since 1998. It is under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey. The museum is housed in a historic building known as Halil Pasha Mansion.

The Ödemiş Museum is located in the district of Ödemiş, within the İzmir Province of Turkey. This museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering visitors a chance to explore the rich history and heritage of the area.

The Osmaniye City Museum is situated in the city of Osmaniye, Turkey. It is conveniently located on Karaoğlan Street, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city. The museum's location is a significant part of its charm, as it allows visitors to immerse themselves in the city's rich history and culture.