Istanbul Bosphorus Museum Opened Its Doors
Established by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality at the Kabataş Transfer Center, the Istanbul Bosphorus Museum has started welcoming visitors with its inaugural exhibition addressing the history and transformation of the Bosphorus.
Brought to life by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality on the second floor of the Kabataş Transfer Center, the Istanbul Bosphorus Museum opened its doors on September 12, 2026, with a living museum model that brings art and culture together. The museum brings art enthusiasts together with a collection exhibition centered on life extending from the 19th century to the early years of the Republic.
A New Space with a Living Museum Model
The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality has opened the Istanbul Bosphorus Museum, located on the second floor of the Kabataş Transfer Center, in order to bring a new breath to the city's cultural and artistic life.
The opening of the museum was held with the participation of IMM Deputy Mayor Nuri Aslan, IMM Secretary General Volkan Demir, IMM Deputy Secretary General Mahir Polat, and numerous guests.
Inaugural Exhibition Meets Visitors
Within the scope of the opening, the collection exhibition titled "Dragging the Moonlight on the Waters: A Bosphorus Story", curated by Ali Kayaalp, was presented to the appreciation of visitors.
The exhibition comprehensively addresses the life shaped along the Bosphorus from the 19th century to the early years of the Republic and the transformation this geography has undergone over time.
Rich Collections and Works Are Featured
Treating the Bosphorus not just as a waterway but as a living space, the exhibition features numerous original works from the Atatürk Library Collection as well as private collections.
In addition to works by prominent figures such as Hoca Ali Rıza, İbrahim Çallı, Fausto Zonaro, and Ara Güler, the exhibition also includes maps, engravings, and old postcards.
Workshop Program for Young Artists
Established on an area of one thousand five hundred and seventy-five square meters, the Istanbul Bosphorus Museum was designed as a cultural platform where artistic production will continue alongside exhibitions.
Ten students to be selected from fine arts faculties will continue their work in the workshop within the museum for a year and exhibit their works at the end of the term.
Visit Information and Dates
The opening exhibition of the Istanbul Bosphorus Museum, "Dragging the Moonlight on the Waters: A Bosphorus Story", can be visited between September 12, 2026, and April 11, 2027.
Visitors can visit the museum free of charge every day between 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM, except on Mondays.