The Askerî Müze (Istanbul Military Museum) is one of Turkey’s most significant cultural and historical institutions. Located in the Harbiye neighborhood of Istanbul, it offers a comprehensive journey through Turkey’s military history, spanning from ancient times to the modern era. The museum is housed in a historic building that once served as a military academy, where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, studied.
Askerî Müze (Istanbul Military Museum)
+90 212 233 27 20
Fax +90 212 296 86 18
Wednesday – Sunday 09:00 – 17:00
Closed January 1, the first days of the Ramadan Holiday and the Festival of Sacrifices and Mondays and Tuesdays.
Admission fee
Gift shop
Aircraft collection
| 10397
13254 62-733/8-733 | Bell OH-13S Sioux
Cessna U-17A Skywagon Lockheed CF-104 Starfighter |
This is one of the leading museums of its kind in the world. In 22 rooms about nine thousand pieces are exhibited, out of a total collection of fifty thousand objects.
Highlights of the Askerî Müze (Istanbul Military Museum):
1. Extensive Collections:
- Weapons and Armor: Displays include swords, shields, spears, bows, and firearms from various historical periods, as well as Ottoman-era armor and battle gear.
- Ottoman Artillery: The collection of Ottoman cannons and other artillery is particularly noteworthy, showcasing the technological advancements of the empire.
- Modern Military Equipment: Exhibits also feature modern military technology and equipment used by the Turkish Armed Forces.
2. The Janissary Band (Mehteran Takımı):
- The Askerî Müze (Istanbul Military Museum) is famous for its live performances of the Mehteran, the Ottoman military band, which is considered the world’s oldest military band. Performances occur daily, providing visitors with a unique auditory experience of traditional Ottoman military music.
3. Historical Exhibits:
- Siege of Constantinople: Detailed exhibits on the 1453 conquest of Istanbul by Sultan Mehmet II, featuring maps, weapons, and depictions of the siege.
- Gallipoli Campaign: A section dedicated to the Gallipoli Campaign of World War I, highlighting the heroism and sacrifices of Turkish soldiers.
4. Special Displays:
- Atatürk’s Memorabilia: Personal items, documents, and photographs related to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk are on display, honoring his contributions as a military leader and statesman.
- Flags and Banners: A remarkable collection of historical banners and flags, including those used by Ottoman armies and other historical Turkish forces.
5. Cultural Artifacts:
- Exhibits also include manuscripts, military uniforms, medals, and paintings depicting significant battles and historical events.
6. Outdoor Exhibits:
- The Askerî Müze (Istanbul Military Museum)‘s gardens feature large-scale displays of tanks, cannons, and aircraft (Bell OH-13S Sioux, Cessna U-17A Skywagon, Lockheed CF-104 Starfighter), providing a closer look at heavy weaponry used throughout history.
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