Located right next to Taksim Square and affiliated with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM) is one of Istanbul’s and Turkey’s largest and most important art and culture centers. On October 29, 2021, it opened its doors to art enthusiasts with its new face, paying homage to its past architecture.

History of AKM

The history of the Istanbul Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM) dates back to 1969 when it was opened to host performances by the State Opera and Ballet and the State Theaters. Following a major fire in 1970, it was rebuilt and renamed Atatürk Cultural Center in 1977.

Atatürk Cultural Center hosts a wide range of art forms such as opera, ballet, theater, painting, cinema, symphony, classical music, and modern folk music, as well as international festivals, congresses, and conferences.

In the newly opened building of Atatürk Cultural Center on October 29, 2021, which aims to transform Taksim into a cultural and arts street, there are units such as the 2040-seat Opera Hall, the 781-seat Theater Hall, AKM Gallery, AKM Multipurpose Hall, AKM Children’s Art Center, AKM Music Platform, AKM Music Recording Studio, AKM Library, AKM Yeşilçam Cinema, and AKM Design Shop.

What to Expect?

In Istanbul AKM, advanced technological facilities are provided in venues such as the Turkish Telekom Opera Hall, Theater Hall, AKM Gallery, and AKM Multipurpose Hall.

These venues not only host events of resident institutions but also open their doors to joint and external productions. With its flawless acoustic features and spacious event areas, it welcomes many valuable artists and groups from both domestic and international scenes.

In the Culture Street of Istanbul AKM, there are cultural stops that appeal to art enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds.

While AKM Gallery and AKM Multipurpose Hall host exhibitions and other cultural events, the Music Platform focuses on long-term exhibitions related to music and music history.

Additionally, the AKM Children’s Art Center aims to introduce children to art, while the AKM Music Recording Studio supports the production of young artists.

In addition to these, the AKM Library stands out with its diverse collection of works in various fields such as art, design, and architecture.

With its restaurants and cafes, Istanbul AKM offers unforgettable experiences to both local and foreign visitors.

Restaurants & Cafes

There are many places in the Culture Street of AKM where you can spend time. Here, you can read books accompanied by tea and coffee, participate in various workshops, and visit exhibitions.

Along with cultural events, the Culture Street also offers a space for visitors to have a good time, where you can find the Gallery, Music Platform, Music Studio, Multipurpose Hall, Children’s Art Center, Design Shop, Library, Cinema, and cafes.

Events

You can view the current events of AKM at https://akmistanbul.gov.tr/events

Location Map