The phrase ‘melting pot’ is a little overused, but when it comes to Türkiye’s largest city, the place is absolutely oozing with culture.
And though Istanbul is already packed to the rafters with intriguing museums, contemporary art and historic buildings, two more cultural centres are about to be added to the mix – and they’ll occupy two of the city’s historic train stations.
The first of these is at Haydarpaşa Station, which will apparently be transformed into Istanbul’s first ‘art and culture’ island, according to Railway Supply.
It closed back in 2010 due to a fire, but now, its existing silo spaces will become exhibition areas and have a section for a museum, and the building will also include a performing arts centre and a library.
Sirkeci Station – once the terminus of the Orient Express – will feature a museum all about Turkish migration, telling the stories of Turkish nationals who began their journeys to Europe from the station. The redesign will also include art galleries and more cultural spaces, alongside all those regional, national and international departures.
The project is a collaborative one between Türkiye’s cultural and transport ministries. The works should all be complete by 2026 - stay tuned!
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