The Museums of Famous Turkish Writers in Istanbul
03
May

The Museums of Famous Turkish Writers in Istanbul

Istanbul has always been inspiring for many Turkish artists and international ones, as many of them spent their lives in Istanbul while producing their best works. The city has a special history of Turkish writers, whose residences were converted into museums after their deaths, demonstrating the importance of literature in Turkish culture. It is really worth visiting these museums, as they do not only reflect writers’ lives but also provide beautiful examples of late Ottoman architecture and style. They are also located in popular and touristic districts; therefore you will have the opportunity to visit all in one place. 

Asiyan Museum, Emirgan

Asiyan Museum, Emirgan, Istanbul

Aşiyan was home of Tevfik Fikret, the famous poet, who lived here between 1906-1915. After his death, the municipality converted this gorgeous residence to a museum. It is open all week except Mondays and an audio-guide in English is also available for those that want to learn more about this famous poet. It is located in Aşiyan, Bebek, which is one of the most beautiful districts of Istanbul. It is also very close to the Emirgan Park, where an international tulip festival is held every April. This district is also home to authentic Istanbul apartments, a beautiful shore and upscale cafes and restaurants. 

Sait Faik Abasiyanik Museum, Burgazada

Sait Faik Abasıyanık Museum, Burgazada, Istanbul

If you are planning a visit to the Princes’ Islands, take a day trip to Burgazada and visit the mansion of the famous writer, Sait Faik Abasıyanık. His beautiful mansion, where he lived between 1943-1953 and wrote most of his books, was opened to the visitors in 2013 after its renovation. When you visit this originally preserved mansion, you will both encounter the traces of his personal life and the culture of that period. Burgazada is a very beautiful and peaceful Istanbul island, famous for its  restaurants serving fresh fish and historical Istanbul properties.  Plan your trip during the weekdays to enjoy the serene environment and visit the museum.

Ahmet Hamdi Tanpinar Literature Museum Library, Alay Pavilion, Gulhane Park

Ahmet Hamdi Tanpınar Literature Museum Library, Alay Pavilion, Gülhane Park, Istanbul

This museum library is located in Alay Pavilion, which was a famous place for ceremonies during the Ottoman period and a popular art center during the early Republic. It was opened in 2011 and it also has sections for other famous writers like Nazim Hikmet, Yahya Kemal and Orhan Pamuk. The pavilion is a classic example of the late Ottoman architecture and its location in Gulhane Park, Sultanahmet, makes it a stone’s throw away from other tourist attractions. You will see many other tourists visiting the nearby palaces, mosques and museums, as Sultanahmet is a heaven for culture and history. As this zone draws in many players of Istanbul real estate and business markets, it is a fast-paced, thriving district. 

Orhan Kemal Museum, Cihangir

Orhan Kemal Museum, Cihangir, Istanbul

This museum opened in 2000 and it is more than just a museum, with a photography collection taken by famous Turkish photographer Ara Güler, a library and a cafe inside. It is located in Cihangir, popular zone of Taksim, most visited for its upscale Istanbul flats, cute cats, design shops and elegant restaurants. Don’t miss to visit this area and enhance your experience with Turkish culture.