Vehbi Koç Büyükdere Evi is a two-storey house on the northern Bosphorus shoreline in Büyükdere, Sarıyer. It now displays Anatolian kilims from the collection of traveler and ethnographer Josephine Powell, alongside weaving tools, a loom, photographs and notes on kilim motifs. The house is also known as a filming location for the Turkish drama Aşk-ı Memnu. Go for the collection and the setting by the water, but check before travelling: reports describe unexpected closures and restricted access to some rooms.
Josephine Powell’s kilim collection
The house holds Anatolian kilims that belonged to Josephine Powell, a traveler and ethnographer who spent decades documenting everyday life and craft traditions in rural Turkey. Kilims are pileless woven rugs, and the displays include examples from Powell’s collection.
Look for the weaving tools and loom, as well as explanations of common kilim motifs. Powell’s photographs add context to the collection and her work documenting craft traditions.
The house and its screen connection
Vehbi Koç Büyükdere Evi is a two-storey house on the northern Bosphorus shoreline. It is also known as a filming location for the Turkish drama Aşk-ı Memnu, a reason some visitors make the trip to Büyükdere.
The rooms have been adapted for the museum, and access inside has been limited at times. Confirm that the house is open before travelling, especially if you are making a longer journey to see it.
Perguntas frequentes
What can you see at Vehbi Koç Büyükdere Evi?
The museum displays Anatolian kilims from Josephine Powell’s collection, weaving tools, a loom, information about kilim motifs and some of her photographs.
Is Vehbi Koç Büyükdere Evi connected to Aşk-ı Memnu?
Yes. The house is known as a filming location for the Turkish drama Aşk-ı Memnu.
Is the museum open every day?
The listed schedule shows it closed on Wednesdays. Visitors have also reported unexpected closures, so check before setting out.
How long does a visit take?
One visitor reported spending 5 to 10 minutes inside. Access to some rooms has been limited.
