Set in two buildings in Sarıyer, beside the Bosphorus, Sadberk Hanım Museum brings together archaeology and Turkish Islamic art. The historic Azaryan Mansion holds Ottoman textiles, garments and embroidery, while the Sevgi Gönül Building displays archaeological works from prehistoric times to the end of the Byzantine era. Look for İznik tiles, Istanbul porcelain, glass birds and embroidered letter wallets from the 18th century. The museum’s garden is a quiet place to pause after viewing the collections, with Turkish coffee available.
Two buildings, two collections
Sadberk Hanım Museum is in Sarıyer, on the Bosphorus, and occupies two buildings. The historic Azaryan Mansion displays Turkish Islamic works, including Ottoman-period textiles, garments and embroidery. Archaeological works are housed in the Sevgi Gönül Building and range from prehistoric times to the end of the Byzantine era.
Seeing both sections gives a broader picture of the museum’s collections. Among the objects visitors can look for are İznik tiles, Istanbul porcelain, glass birds and Islamic art. The displays also include household settings such as a bridal room, a hammam and a circumcision room.
The Azaryan Mansion
The mansion was built at the end of the 19th century. The Koç family bought it in 1950 and used it as a summer retreat before deciding to convert it into a museum. Architect Sedat Hakkı Eldem led its restoration from 1978 to 1980, and the museum opened there in 1980 as Türkiye’s first private museum.
One distinctive display is a collection of embroidered leather letter and document wallets, some dating to the 1700s. Their gold ornamentation gives these everyday objects a detailed finish. The mansion also presents Ottoman textiles, garments and embroidery.
A pause in the garden
After exploring the galleries, take a moment in the garden at the back of the museum. Turkish coffee is available there, making it a place to rest before continuing your visit. The museum also has a gift shop.
The museum is in Büyükdere, Sarıyer. A bus stop is about a two-minute walk away, while the ferry stop is farther on foot. Check the museum’s current visitor information before travelling, particularly around Wednesday closures and public holidays.
FAQ
Where is Sadberk Hanım Museum?
It is in Büyükdere, in Istanbul’s Sarıyer district, beside the Bosphorus.
What can you see at the museum?
The two buildings display archaeological works, Ottoman textiles and embroidery, İznik tiles, Istanbul porcelain, glass birds and Islamic art.
Is Sadberk Hanım Museum closed on any day?
It is closed on Wednesdays. One account also notes closures on the first days of both Eids, so check before your visit.
Do you need to book tickets in advance?
Advance tickets are recommended. Admission is charged; the available information does not give a current price.
