The State Museum of Paintings and Sculptures displays an eclectic range of art from the 19th century onward. Its impressive collection of contemporary art has made it one of the cornerstones of culture in Ankara. Browse the intriguing permanent works and the temporary exhibits in the majestic structure to enjoy some of the world’s finest pieces of Turkish art.
Architect Arif Hikmet Koyunoğlu designed and built this structure in 1927 with orders from independent Turkey’s first leader, Atatürk. It was turned into the art museum of today at the beginning of the 1980s.
When you arrive at the museum, admire the majesty of the large building, which is a fine example of the country’s First National Architectural Period. Spend the afternoon learning about some of the biggest names in contemporary Turkish art. You will see works from Osman Hamdi Bey, Emel Cimcoz and others. Temporary exhibitions showcase foreign works of art in order to educate locals about modern art outside their country.
Take a course in painting, ceramics or sculpture to learn to produce your own masterpieces. There is also a class on Turkish Ornamenting Arts. See a concert or theatrical production in the historical hall, which has been restored to its original grandeur.
Stop for a break from the art and sip a coffee in the café. Browse the souvenirs and books for sale at the gift shop.
The museum opens in the morning until late in the afternoon with a break for lunch at noon.
The State Museum of Paintings and Sculptures sits next to the Ethnography Museum just north of the city centre. It is an area densely filled with attractions, such as Gençlik Park, the Roman Theatre and the Temple of Augustus. Take the metro to either Ulus or Sihhiye. You could also take the train to Sihhiye Tren Istanbul or a bus to any of the stops nearby.
