Profesör Doktor Metin Aktaş Zooloji Müzesi

Prof. Dr. Metin Aktaş Zooloji Müzesi: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide in Ankara

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Located within the Faculty of Science at Gazi University in Ankara, the Prof. Dr. Metin Aktaş Zooloji Müzesi stands as a prominent institution celebrating Turkey’s zoological heritage. Established in 1977 under the leadership of Professor Dr. Metin Aktaş, a distinguished figure in Turkish zoology, the museum has grown into a hub for biodiversity research, education, and conservation. Housing over 10,000 specimens—including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and a rich array of invertebrates—it serves as a vital repository for Anatolian and Eastern Mediterranean fauna.

Visitors can enter free of charge during weekdays, with options for guided tours, workshops, and special educational events. The museum is also equipped with advanced scientific facilities, such as electron microscopy laboratories and a herbarium, supporting both academic research and public engagement. Its digitization efforts and collaboration with national and international partners further cement its role as a modern, accessible center for science and culture.

Situated in Ankara’s university district, the museum is easily accessible by public transit and provides accommodations for visitors with mobility needs. Its proximity to cultural landmarks—such as Anıtkabir and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations—makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of scientific discovery and historical exploration (Gazi University Zooloji Müzesi, ResearchGate: Zoological Museums in Turkey).

Introduction
Historical Background and Development
Collection Highlights and Scientific Significance
Visiting Information
Educational and Public Outreach
Modernization and Digital Initiatives
National and International Collaboration
Conservation and Research Efforts
Recognition and Awards
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals and Media
Plan Your Visit

Historical Background and Development

Founding and Early Years

The museum was founded in 1977 as part of Gazi University’s Department of Biology, reflecting Turkey’s commitment to developing academic resources for biodiversity research. Professor Dr. Metin Aktaş, who later became the museum’s namesake, played a key role in shaping its collections and mission. Initially, the museum’s core collection consisted of specimens gathered by faculty and students during fieldwork across Anatolia, an area notable for its ecological diversity.

Expansion, Renaming, and Legacy

During the 1980s and 1990s, the museum expanded its collection and facilities, focusing particularly on Turkish vertebrates and invertebrates. Professor Aktaş’s leadership established the institution as a reference center for zoological research in the Eastern Mediterranean. In the early 2000s, the museum was officially renamed in his honor, reflecting his significant contributions to Turkish herpetology and the mentorship of future generations of biologists (Gazi University News).

Collection Highlights and Scientific Significance

The museum’s collection exceeds 10,000 zoological specimens, representing:

Mammals: Notable native species like the Anatolian ground squirrel and various bats.
Birds: Emphasis on Anatolian endemics and migratory species.
Reptiles and Amphibians: Reflecting Professor Aktaş’s research focus, including rare and endangered taxa.
Invertebrates: An extensive entomological collection, especially beetles and butterflies, many of which are endemic to Turkey.

This comprehensive repository supports taxonomic, ecological, and conservation research, and has been cited in numerous scientific publications (ResearchGate: Zoological Museums in Turkey).

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday – Sunday: Closed
(Note: Some sources indicate special opening on Saturdays—verify the schedule via the official website before visiting.)

Ticket Prices

General Admission: Free
Group Tours: Available by appointment; contact the museum for arrangements.

Location and Directions

Address: Gazi University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Ankara, Turkey
Public Transport:
- Metro: Gazi University station (M1 line)
- Bus: Several lines serve the university campus
Parking: On-campus parking is available.

Accessibility

The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators. Staff are available to assist visitors with special needs.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided tours are offered for school groups, families, and special interest groups by advance booking. The museum regularly hosts workshops, lectures, and participates in science festivals.

Photography

Photography is permitted in designated areas; flash and tripod use may be restricted.

Educational and Public Outreach

The museum offers a range of educational programs in both Turkish and English, including:

Interactive workshops for schoolchildren and families
Lectures and seminars on biodiversity and conservation
Collaborations with local schools and environmental organizations
Participation in national science festivals, reaching a wide audience annually (Gazi University Events)

Modernization and Digital Initiatives

Recent developments include:

A digitized specimen database with high-resolution images and metadata, contributing to international research access (Gazi University Digital Collections)
Multimedia displays and interactive kiosks in public exhibition areas
Virtual tours and online educational content
Integration with the Prof. Dr. Tuna Ekim Herbarium and the Prof. Dr. Zekiye Suludere Electron Microscope Laboratory, enabling multidisciplinary scientific work (Gazi University News)

National and International Collaboration

The museum collaborates with other Turkish natural history museums and European institutions, supporting:

Specimen exchanges
Joint research projects
Hosting of visiting scholars and research fellows (ResearchGate: Zoological Museums in Turkey)

Conservation and Research Efforts

The museum is active in:

Climate-controlled specimen storage and state-of-the-art conservation
Fieldwork yielding new records for Turkey’s fauna
Supporting national biodiversity conservation strategies
Research in conservation genetics, invasive species, and climate change impacts (Gazi University Faculty of Science)

Recognition and Awards

The museum has been recognized for its scientific and educational contributions, with exhibitions featured in national media and a steady increase in visitor numbers from across Turkey and abroad.

Nearby Attractions

Combine your visit with other major Ankara landmarks:

Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
Anıtkabir (Atatürk Mausoleum)
Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo
Historic Hamamönü district These sites provide a holistic cultural and historical experience for visitors (Places to Visit Asia – Ankara).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the museum’s opening hours?
A: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM. Closed on weekends. Check the website for holiday hours.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: Admission is free for all visitors.

Q: Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, with full wheelchair access and staff assistance.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by advance appointment.

Q: Can I take photographs inside the museum?
A: Yes, in designated areas. Flash and tripod use may be restricted.

Q: How do I get there by public transport?
A: Use the M1 metro to Gazi University station or local buses serving the campus.

Q: Are there special events or workshops?
A: The museum holds regular workshops and participates in science festivals. Check the official website for schedules.

Visuals and Media

A virtual tour and additional images are available on the official museum website.

Plan Your Visit

Explore Turkey’s fascinating animal diversity at the Prof. Dr. Metin Aktaş Zooloji Müzesi—an essential stop for anyone interested in science, nature, or culture. For the latest updates, guided tour bookings, and educational resources, visit the official Gazi University Zoology Museum page or follow the museum on social media.

To enrich your Ankara experience, consider nearby attractions and make use of digital resources and mobile apps like Audiala for interactive content and virtual guides.