The third season of the "Night Museums" project, launched to present Turkey's rich cultural heritage beyond regular visiting hours and to discover historical sites in a unique atmosphere, has officially begun.
From June 1 to October 1, 2026, across the country from Nemrut to Ephesus, and from Zeugma to the Galata Tower, 20 museums and historical monuments will be open to visitors starting from 19:00 until the designated night closing time.
This project not only further enriches Turkey's cultural tourism potential but also makes an important contribution to the preservation of historical heritage. A more balanced distribution of the tourist flow throughout the day helps reduce congestion at historical sites and allows visitors to view the monuments in a calm and comfortable environment. The extended working hours of museums give tourists the opportunity to spend more time in the country and experience Turkey's priceless cultural treasures more deeply and without rushing. Thus, the encounter with history turns into a more meaningful and memorable experience than a regular excursion.
Istanbul Night Museums
In Istanbul, Turkey's cultural capital, the Istanbul Archaeology Museums, the Galata Tower, and the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts invite tourists on a wonderful cultural journey this summer as part of the "Night Museums" project.
The Istanbul Archaeology Museums hold special significance as they house one of the world's oldest peace treaties and one of the oldest love poems in human history. The night lights of Istanbul and the unique view of the Golden Horn visible from the Galata Tower fascinate visitors. Meanwhile, the rich collections of the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts transport visitors back through the centuries, introducing them to the rare heritage of Turkish and Islamic civilization.
Secrets of ancient history under the Aegean sky
Ephesus is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. Its magnificent historical monuments look even more captivating in the silence of the night.
There are several other historical sites in the Aegean region that retain their charm even in the dark of night. Among them, the ancient city of Hierapolis in Denizli and the Temple of Apollo in Didim, Aydın, stand out particularly. The Hierapolis Theater, associated with the name of Iera, the wife of the mythical founder of Pergamon Telephus, takes on a more enchanting ambiance in the quiet environment of the night with its ancient streets and pure white travertines.
Built in the Ionic order as one of the largest temples of the ancient world, the Temple of Didim Apollon leaves a great impression on visitors with its elegant columns and magnificent architecture.
Heritage of the Turkish Riviera
Antalya, the heart of the Turkish Riviera, stands out with its sunny climate, crystal-blue waters, and rich historical heritage. Embarking the traces of ancient civilizations such as Lycia, Pamphylia, and Pisidia, the city is one of the region's most attractive cultural destinations.
Ancient cities such as Aspendos, Patara, and Side take on an even more unique appearance under night lighting. Aspendos, famous for its huge Roman amphitheater; Patara, known as the site of the world's first democratic assembly building and restored lighthouse; and Side, famous for its seaside Temple of Apollo, enchant tourists even at night.
In addition, the evening operations of the Alanya and Lycian Civilizations museums allow guests to get an even closer look at Turkey's rich historical heritage.
Masterpieces of Anatolia
Many historical sites located across Anatolia within the scope of Turkey's "Night Museums" project are also attracting the attention of tourists. Mount Nemrut in Adiyaman, famous for its giant ancient god statues, the Ahlat tombstones in Bitlis, and the Derinkuyu underground city in Cappadocia take on an even more mysterious appearance under night lighting. This ancient underground complex served as an important shelter for early Christians.
Additionally, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations in the capital Ankara, the Zeugma Mosaic Museum in Gaziantep, and the Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum and Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum also welcome guests during evening hours, showcasing the rich layers of history through their unique collections.
