Do you have a fascination with ancient history and art? These are the top ancient art museums in Turkey:
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. 2Agora of Smyrna
IzmirThe 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. 3Great Palace Mosaic Museum
IstanbulThe Great Palace Mosaic Museum, also known as Büyük Saray Mozaikleri Müzesi, is situated in the vibrant city of Istanbul. It is conveniently located near the Blue Mosque, one of the city's most iconic landmarks. This proximity allows visitors to easily incorporate a visit to the museum into their sightseeing itinerary. 4Pera Museum
Beyoğlu Station, Tünel LineThe Pera Museum is an art museum situated in the Tepebaşı quarter of the Beyoğlu district in Istanbul, Turkey. It is conveniently located at Meşrutiyet Avenue No. 65, adjacent to the bustling İstiklal Avenue and near the famous Taksim Square. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city. 5Sakıp Sabancı Museum
SarıyerThe Sakıp Sabancı Museum, affiliated with Sabancı University, is an art museum that boasts a rich collection of calligraphy and paintings. It is known for hosting the works of many renowned artists through its temporary exhibitions. This makes it a significant destination for art lovers and those interested in exploring the diverse artistic expressions from different periods and regions. 6İzmir Archaeological Museum
IzmirThe 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. 7Hierapolis Museum
PamukkaleThe 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. 8Eskişehir Eti Archaeology Museum
EskisehirThe 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. 9Şanlıurfa Archaeology and Mosaic Museum
ŞanlıurfaThe 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. 10Hatay Archaeology Museum
HatayThe 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. 11National Palaces Painting Museum
BeşiktaşThe National Palaces Painting Museum is an art museum located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was opened in 2014 at the Crown Prince Residence of Dolmabahçe Palace. The museum is a relatively recent addition to Istanbul's cultural scene, offering visitors a chance to explore a collection of 19th-century art within the historic setting of the Dolmabahçe Palace. 12Gordion Museum
PolatlıThe 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. 13Istanbul 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. 14Antalya Museum
AntalyaThe 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. 15Alanya Archaeological Museum
AlanyaThe 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. 16Bergama Museum
BergamaThe 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. 17Troy Museum
CanakkaleThe 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. 18İznik Müzesi
IznikThe 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. 19Sakıp Sabancı Mardin City Museum
ArtukluThe Sakıp Sabancı Museum, which opened its doors to the public in 2002, is an art museum located in Emirgan, one of the oldest settlements of the Bosphorus in Istanbul. The museum is known for its rich collection of calligraphy and paintings. It also hosts temporary exhibitions featuring the works of many renowned artists, making it a significant cultural hub in the city.