Private Sadberk Hanim Museum (What to See? Entrance Fee)

Being part of Vehbi Koc Foundation, the Sadberk Hanim Museum is Turkey’s first a private museum that exhibits the private collection of Sadberk Koc, the wife of Vehbi Koc, a famous Turkish businessman. Hanim means Lady in Turkish. The museum was opened in 1980 for the memory of lady Sadberk and housed in the Azaryan Mansion, a lovely building located by the Bosphorus shore in Sariyer district.

The museum lies on two separate parts and showcases exhibitions of more than 20,000 pieces artifacts of Turkish and Islamic works and archaeological relics belonging to different eras in time.

What to See

The museum consists of two separate buildings, the Archaeological section (Sevgi Gönül Wing) and the Turkish-Islamic Art section (Azaryan Mansion).

The Sadberk Hanım Museum’s collection has undergone significant expansion, growing from its initial 3,000 objects to an impressive collection of over 20,000 items today. The Sevgi Gönül Building houses archaeological artifacts reflecting the material culture of various civilizations in Anatolia, spanning from 6000 BC to the end of the Byzantine period in 1453.

Meanwhile, the Azaryan Yalısı exhibits predominantly Ottoman-period Islamic works, including items from Europe, the Near East, and the Far East crafted for the Ottoman market. Additionally, the museum displays Ottoman-period textiles, costumes, and embroidery. The Sadberk Hanım Museum is open to academic researchers seeking to study its diverse collections, with a provided form for obtaining research permissions.

Archaeological section

Here, you’ll see great archaeological artifacts of civilizations in Anatolia from 6000 BC to the end of Byzantine Period. Artifacts include;

• Vessels made of terracotta or quarry,
• Figurines, ritual symbols, glass artifacts,
• Coins, ornaments, tablets,
• Tomb steles and sculptures.

Periods

Prehistoric, Protohistoric, Neolithic, Mycenaean, Geometric, Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine

Turkish-Islamic Art section

Here, you’ll see exhibitions of the Turkish-Islamic Art that include;

• Metal, ceramic and glass artifacts from the Seljuk, Ayyubid, Mamluk, Timurid and Safavid periods,
• Iznik ceramic collection (one of the leading collections in the world)
• Chinese porcelain is collection
• Silver-works with tugra and tombak objects
• Ottoman weaving, embroidery,
• Ottoman women’s costumes,
• Calligraphic artifacts from the Ottoman period.

Temporary Exhibitions

There are also temporary exhibitions and events held at the Sadberk Hanim Museum. See the current exhibitions from sadberkhanimmuzesi.org.tr/en/

Museum Library

The Sadberk Hanım Museum Library stands as a prominent private specialist library, boasting a collection of 13,147 printed books and 673 manuscripts.

Notably, it houses 421 rare sâlnâme yearbooks, marking the most extensive sâlnâme collection in any private library in Turkey and placing among the top five collections across all libraries in the country. This specialized library warmly welcomes graduate students and academics for study, and appointments can be scheduled by completing the provided form.

Photograph Archive

The photograph archive of the Sadberk Hanım Museum comprises high-definition images of every item within its collection. Alongside the museum’s catalogues and publications, these images can be accessed for use in external publications through the payment of a reproduction fee. If you intend to utilize images from the photograph archive, please complete the provided form to proceed.

Museum Shop

You can purchase; Purse, Bag, Silk Scarf, Mug, Soap Sachet and Make Up Bag, Ceramic Objects, Umbrella and Jewelry

Visiting Tips

Why is Sadberk Hanim Museum famous?

Sadberk Hanim Museum is renowned for housing an impressive collection of Turkish art and artifacts, spanning various periods of history. It stands out as the first private museum in Turkey, founded by the Koc family. The museum’s exhibits showcase a diverse array of cultural treasures, including archaeological finds, ceramics, manuscripts, and ethnographic items. Its rich and extensive collection provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the cultural heritage of Turkey.

Is Sadberk Hanim Museum worth it?

Absolutely, Sadberk Hanim Museum is well worth a visit, especially for those with an interest in Turkish history, art, and culture. The carefully curated displays offer a comprehensive journey through the country’s past, highlighting its artistic achievements and historical significance. The museum’s setting, in a historic mansion overlooking the Bosphorus, adds to the charm of the experience. Visitors often find the collection informative and engaging, making it a rewarding destination for both art enthusiasts and those keen on delving into Turkey’s rich cultural tapestry.

Is there a dress code for Sadberk Hanim Museum?

While there isn’t a strict dress code, it’s advisable to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting Sadberk Hanim Museum, keeping in mind the cultural context. Casual and comfortable clothing is generally suitable for exploring the exhibits and enjoying the museum’s elegant surroundings.

How long do you spend at the Sadberk Hanim Museum?

The duration of your visit to Sadberk Hanim Museum depends on your level of interest in the exhibits. On average, visitors spend around 1 to 2 hours exploring the museum’s various collections. However, if you have a deeper interest in Turkish art and history, you may find yourself captivated for a more extended period.

What time should I visit the Sadberk Hanim Museum?

Visiting in the morning or early afternoon is often recommended to make the most of your time at Sadberk Hanim Museum. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, providing a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. Be sure to check the museum’s official website for the latest information on opening hours and any special exhibitions.

How to get tickets for Sadberk Hanim Museum

Tickets for Sadberk Hanim Museum can be purchased at the entrance or through the museum’s official website. Online ticketing may offer the convenience of avoiding lines, particularly during peak hours.

Visiting Hours & Admissions

Opening Hours

Open every day except Wednesdays between 10:00 – 17:00

Closed on Wednesdays.

Special Days

Museum is closed on the first day of religious holidays (Ramadan and Sacrifice feast), as well as January 1st. See Turkey’s public holidays

Ticket Price

Please double check hours and admissions from sadberkhanimmuzesi.org.tr

How to Get to Sadberk Hanim Museum

Location

You’ll find the Sadberk Hanim Museum just on the Bosphorus shore in the Sariyer district. See the location map.

Transportation

Public Bus

The most practical way to get to Sadberk Hanim Museum is via Municipal Public Bus. operating through the Bosphorus shores through Sariyer and Rumelikavagi. Hop off at the Beyazpark bus stop. Some of the lines include;

• Line 54TE, 47, 47Ç, 47E, 47K and 47N from Eminonu
• Line 25G and 40 from Taksim
• Line 25E from Kabatas (accessible by Bagcilar-Kabatas tram T1 line)
• Line 40B from Besiktas
• Line 25, 25A and 25Y from Haciosman Metro (accessible by Yenikapi-Taksim-Haciosman M2 Metro line)

* Check Municipal public bus routes and timetables from iett.istanbul (just type the location on the search bar and it will show the bus lines with routes and stops)

Public Ferry

You can take Public Ferry Bosphorus line operating between Eminonu-Rumeli Kavagi and hop off at Sariyer pier. (Eminonu, Besiktas, Arnavutkoy, Bebek, Emirgan, Istinye, Buyukdere, Sariyer, Rumeli Kavagi stops)

Taxi

Most tourists find public buses not comfortable, if you feel so, than you should take a cab (check out Istanbul Taxi Guide) as Sadberk Hanim Museum is very far away from city’s popular tourist zones. And it will be expensive for sure.

Contact Details

Address: Piyasa Caddesi No:25-29, Buyukdere, Sariyer, Istanbul
Tel: +90 212 242 38 13 – 14
Web: sadberkhanimmuzesi.org.tr