Museum of Islamic Civilizations

The Islamic Civilization Museum, established within the Büyük Çamlıca Mosque Complex, is an extraordinary museum that showcases the rich history of Islamic culture and civilization. Drawing inspiration from the Quran, the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and the profound traditions of the Islamic world, this museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the profound contributions of Islam to world civilization across various fields of science, art, and architecture.

Islamic Civilization and the Role of Turkey: Turkey, influenced by more than a thousand years of Seljuk and Ottoman history, occupies a highly significant position in terms of the rich Islamic heritage it hosts. From the magnificent examples of Islamic architecture scattered across Anatolia to the institutions created by the Turkish-Islamic experience, Turkey plays a vital role in the establishment and continuity of Islamic civilization. The Islamic heritage is firmly rooted in Turkey, particularly in cities like Istanbul, where Ottoman legacies still resonate through its culture, art, and architectural landmarks.

The Museum's Purpose: Beyond the open spaces in Turkish museums, there are thousands of Islamic artifacts stored in their depots, waiting to meet local and international visitors. The Islamic Civilization Museum was conceived as a way to bring this vast Islamic heritage to a broader audience through contemporary museum techniques and modern technology. By integrating interactive and digital experiences, the museum aims to enable visitors not only to observe but to engage with the civilization of Islam.

Museum Overview: The Islamic Civilization Museum, located within the Büyük Çamlıca Mosque Complex (opened in 2019 as Turkey's largest mosque), brings together a stunning array of exhibits from a rich historical legacy. The museum’s modern architecture and its diverse collection present a comprehensive look at the cultural, scientific, and artistic achievements of Islamic civilization, spanning from the 7th to the 19th centuries.

The museum includes digital works that enhance the experience, such as the "Âb-ı Hayat" installation, which draws inspiration from the divine name "Hayy" (The Ever-Living). The 2-minute 17-second piece uses verses to highlight the power of water and its significance in life. Special audio stations also demonstrate the therapeutic uses of Turkish music modes.

Exhibited Works: The museum displays over 600 works that are carefully selected from six of Turkey's most prestigious museums, including the Topkapı Palace Museum, the Palace Collections Museum, the Istanbul Archaeological Museums, the Istanbul Tombs Museum, the Vakıflar Museum, and the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art. These works encompass a broad range of artifacts, such as manuscripts, scientific instruments, architectural models, textiles, coins, and more.

Museum Sections: The museum is divided into thematic sections that span the history of Islamic civilization, beginning with the time of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Kaaba, and continuing through the development of science, technology, and art in the Islamic world.

Some of the key sections include:

1. Turkish Textile Arts – A collection of Turkish textiles showcasing the country’s rich heritage in fabric arts.
2. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Artifacts Attributed to Him – A section dedicated to the sacred relics and artifacts associated with the Prophet.
3. Islamic Architecture and Decorative Elements – Featuring examples of Islamic architectural styles and decorative art.
4. The First Temple: Kaaba – Focusing on the significance of the Kaaba and early Islamic history.
5. Syrian Documents (Sham Evrakı) – An exhibition of selected historical documents from the Syrian region.
6. The Quran and Its Preservation – A special section dedicated to the Quran, showcasing exquisite examples from different periods of Islamic history.
7. Science in Islam – Illustrating the contributions of Islamic civilization to the fields of science and technology.
8. Royal Decrees and Imperial Orders – Featuring Ottoman and other Islamic period documents.
9. Calligraphy (Hüsn-i Hat) – Displaying masterpieces of Islamic calligraphy.
10. Magical Tunics and Ottoman Clothing – A section on special garments used in Islamic culture.
11. Traditional Islamic Weaponry – Displaying weapons used by Muslim conquerors in their campaigns.
12. Turkish Ceramics and Tiles – Featuring the art of Turkish ceramics and tilework.

Visitor Information:

• Opening Hours:
  Box Office opens at 09:00 AM
  Box Office closes at 05:30 PM
  The museum is closed on Mondays.

• Ticket Pricing:

  • For foreign visitors and foreign students, the museum has a set fee.
  • Domestic visitors can enter for free.

This new policy aims to provide a more accessible experience for visitors, expanding the reach of the Islamic Civilization Museum’s rich collection to a broader audience. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or someone interested in the cultural contributions of Islamic civilization, the museum offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore one of the world's most important cultural legacies.

We invite everyone interested in discovering the museum’s extensive collection to experience the Islamic Civilization Museum and embark on an inspiring journey through Islamic history and culture.