Büyükçekmece: Architectural History, Culture and Coast

Historic buildings, museums, event venues and the coastal setting offer different ways to experience Büyükçekmece during a stay. If you are particularly interested in architectural history, the mosque, bridge and Kurşunluhan take center stage. For a visit with a cultural program, you can also explore the Dünya Kostüm Müzesi, the Atatürk Cultural Center and the Yörük Ali Efe Anı Evi. The coast and the nature and recreation park on Büyükçekmece Lake offer a different perspective. You can plan your trip according to whether you prefer architectural history, collections, events, or a connection with the coast and nature.

Architectural history with different date references

The Sokullu Mehmet Pasha Mosque is believed to date from 1566–1567. Its minaret is carved from a single block of stone; according to the municipal description, this feature is unique in Turkey and can otherwise be found only in Egypt. Construction of the Kanuni Sultan Süleyman Bridge, also known as the Mimar Sinan Bridge, began in 1566 and was completed in 1567; it is located in Dizdariye, Büyükçekmece. These dates provide two different kinds of historical information: the mosque's date is an estimate, while the bridge's construction start and completion dates are specified. Both refer to 1566 and 1567, but they describe different aspects of construction.

The Kurşunluhan in Dizdariye adds another dimension to this architectural perspective through its former use. Animals and cargo were housed in the central area, while adjoining rooms were used for resting and sleeping. This makes it possible to understand the building not only through its appearance, but also through the layout and function of its different areas.

Museum collections and places of remembrance

The Dünya Kostüm Müzesi displays traditional Anatolian folk clothing as well as costumes and accessories donated by the municipalities of countries participating in the International Büyükçekmece Culture and Art Festival. The collection therefore brings together two points of origin: traditional clothing from Anatolia and contributions from municipalities in the countries taking part in the festival.

The Yörük Ali Efe Anı Evi, by contrast, focuses on one person. It presents the life story, words and deeds of Yörük Ali, who is regarded as a folk hero and a symbolic figure of the Turkish War of Independence. If you are interested in history beyond architecture, you can make this biographical subject a focus of your trip.

Cultural offerings and events

The Dünya Kostüm Müzesi hosts monthly workshops for children and talks for adults. The monthly program thus includes two formats for two audiences; if you are interested in a particular event, check the relevant dates.

The Atatürk Cultural Center hosts national and international festivals, promotional events, school events and Halk Akademisi graduation ceremonies, and also provides space for artistic organizations. The center also includes the Kutadgu Bilig Library, Büyükçekmece Müjdat Gezen Art Academy, Bedia Muvahhit Lecture Hall, İbrahim Çallı Art Gallery and other event spaces. Its offerings therefore extend beyond individual stage events: the library, academy, lecture hall and gallery represent different forms of cultural activity.

The International Istanbul Büyükçekmece Culture and Art Festival brings international culture and art to Büyükçekmece. It is a Category A festival and a member of CIOFF, an organization associated with UNESCO. As individual programs change, check the latest dates before attending a specific event.

Coast and nature

Büyükçekmece Sahili is one of Istanbul's important coastal spots. The nature and recreation park on Büyükçekmece Lake offers another opportunity to enjoy nature and recreation: its first phase was opened for recreational activities for sports and nature enthusiasts, as well as school-age children. If you plan to visit the park, check local operating conditions before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Kaynarca, Elbasan, Cebeci, Başakşehir, Doğancılı, Gümüşdere Köyü, Alkent 2000, Maltepe.

For the wider travel guide: Istanbul.