Museum Of The Ancient Orient

Introduction

The Eski Şark Eserleri Müzesi, also known as the Museum of the Ancient Orient, is an essential cultural and historical destination located in Istanbul, Türkiye. As part of the Istanbul Archaeology Museums complex, this museum offers a profound journey through the rich histories of ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, Anatolia, and the Arabian Peninsula. Founded in 1935 and housed in the historically significant building initially serving as the Ottoman College of Fine Arts, the museum stands as a testament to the foresight of Osman Hamdi Bey and the architectural prowess of Alexandre Vallaury (Wikipedia). The museum's collections, derived largely from archaeological excavations conducted during the late 19th century until World War I, provide invaluable insights into the earliest eras of human civilization. This comprehensive guide aims to equip visitors with essential knowledge about the museum's history, significant collections, visitor information, and practical travel tips, ensuring an enriching and memorable experience.

History and Significance

Establishment and Early History

The Eski Şark Eserleri Müzesi is an integral part of the Istanbul Archaeology Museums complex. The museum is housed in a building that was originally the Ottoman College of Fine Arts (Sanâyi-i Nefîse Mektebi), commissioned by Osman Hamdi Bey and designed by Alexandre Vallaury in 1883. The college moved out in 1916, and the museum was officially established in 1935 in its current building (Wikipedia).

Architectural Significance

The building itself is a historical artifact, bearing the tughra of Sultan Abdulhamid II on its pediment. The inscription in Ottoman Turkish reads "Asar-ı Atika Müzesi" (Ancient Artifacts Museum), highlighting its original purpose. The structure is one of the rare examples of buildings specifically constructed as a museum during its era (Istanbul.com).

Collections and Exhibits

The museum's collections are vast and diverse, encompassing artifacts from various ancient civilizations, including Mesopotamia, Egypt, Anatolia, and the Arabian Peninsula. These collections primarily consist of items unearthed during archaeological excavations conducted from the late 19th century until World War I, during the Ottoman Empire's rule (Kulturportali).

Notable Artifacts

  • Shalmaneser III Statue: This statue of the Assyrian king Shalmaneser III, who reigned from 858 to 824 BCE, is a significant exhibit. The inscriptions on the statue detail his titles, wars, and achievements (Istanbul.com).

  • Egyptian Tomb: The museum houses an Egyptian tomb displayed in a large glass case. The exhibit includes two coffins, mummies, canopic jars (used to store the organs of the mummified bodies), a coffin headpiece, baskets, and a chest (Istanbul.com).

  • Kadesh Treaty: One of the most remarkable artifacts is the Kadesh Treaty, the earliest known peace treaty, signed between the Hittites and the Egyptians around 1259 BCE (Kulturportali).

  • Ishtar Gate: The museum also features parts of the Ishtar Gate, originally from Babylon, which dates back to the reign of King Nebuchadnezzar II (605-562 BCE) (Kulturportali).

Restoration and Modern Developments

The museum has undergone several restorations and reorganizations to preserve its collections and enhance the visitor experience. During World War II, the museum was evacuated for protection. It was later reorganized by Osman Sümer following the principles of Eckhard Unger, who had worked on the museum's display between 1917-1919 and 1932-1935 (Yaz-Tatili). In 1963, a significant reorganization took place, and the museum was reopened in 1974. The most recent renovations occurred between 1999 and 2000, culminating in the museum's current state, which reopened on September 8, 2000 (Kulturportali).

Visitor Information

Ticket Prices and Visiting Hours

While the museum is currently closed for restoration, typical visiting hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Ticket prices are generally affordable, with discounts available for students and seniors. Check the official museum website or local tourist information for the latest updates on reopening, ticket prices, and visiting hours.

How to Get There

The museum is located in Istanbul's Fatih district, near Gülhane Park. Visitors can easily reach the museum by taking the Kabataş - Bağcılar tram line to the Gülhane station, which is a five-minute walk from the museum. Alternatively, it is a ten-minute walk from Sultanahmet Square, adjacent to the Topkapı Palace (Istanbul.com).

Nearby Attractions

While visiting the museum, you can also explore other nearby historical sites such as the Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque. These landmarks offer additional insights into Istanbul's rich cultural and historical heritage.

Cultural and Educational Impact

The Eski Şark Eserleri Müzesi plays a crucial role in preserving and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of ancient civilizations. It provides invaluable educational opportunities for scholars, students, and the general public. The museum's extensive collection of cuneiform tablets, including 75,000 documents, offers deep insights into the administrative, economic, and social aspects of ancient societies (Kulturportali).

Temporary Closure and Future Prospects

As of May 12, 2022, the museum is temporarily closed for restoration and display arrangement works, as approved by the General Directorate of Cultural Assets and Museums of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism (Wikipedia). This closure aims to ensure the preservation of the artifacts and improve the overall visitor experience.

FAQ

What are the opening hours of Eski Şark Eserleri Müzesi?

Typically, the museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it is currently closed for restoration. Check the official website for updates.

How much are tickets to Eski Şark Eserleri Müzesi?

Ticket prices vary, but discounts are usually available for students and seniors. Please refer to the museum's official website for specific pricing.

Is the Eski Şark Eserleri Müzesi accessible?

The museum strives to be accessible to all visitors. However, it's best to check with the museum staff for specific accessibility features and services.