The Antalya Museum or Antalya Archeological Museum (Turkish: Antalya Müzesi) is one of Turkey's largest museums, located in Konyaaltı, Antalya. It includes 13 exhibition halls and an open air gallery. It covers an area of 7,000 m2 (75,000 sq ft) and 5000 works of art are exhibited. In addition a further 25,000–30,000 artifacts which cannot be displayed are in storage. As a museum exhibiting examples of works, which illuminate the history of the Mediterranean and Pamphylia regions in Anatolia, Antalya Museum is one of the most important of Turkey's museums. The Museum won the “European Council Special Prize” in 1988. At the end of the World War I, during the time when Antalya was under Italian military occupation, Italian archeologists started removing archeological treasures that had been found in the city center and surrounding the Italian Embassy, which they claimed to do in the name of civilization. To prevent these initiatives, Süleyman Fikri Bey, the Sultan's advisor, applied to the Antalya post of provincial governor in 1919, had himself appointed as voluntary curator of antiquities, and first established Antalya Museum to try and collect what remained in the center. The museum at first operated in the Alâeddin Mosque in 1922, then in Yivli Minare Mosque beginning from 1937, and then moved to its present building in 1972. It was closed to visitors for a wide range of modifications and restorations in 1982. It was reorganized according to modern museum concepts and opened to the public in April 1985, after the restorations and display arrangements made by the General Directorate of Ancient Objects and Museums.
Antalya Museum (Antalya Muzesi) Tours and Tickets
🎧 Available audio guides (15)
The Antalya Museum or Antalya Archeological Museum (Turkish: Antalya Müzesi) is one of Turkey's largest museums, located in Konyaaltı, Antalya. It includes 13 exhibition halls and an open air gallery. It covers an area of 7,000 m2 (75,000 sq ft) and 5000 works of art are exhibited. In addition a further 25,000–30,000 artifacts which cannot be displayed are in storage. As a museum exhibiting examples of works, which illuminate the history of the Mediterranean and Pamphylia regions in Anatolia, Antalya Museum is one of the most important of Turkey's museums. The Museum won the “European Council Special Prize” in 1988. At the end of the World War I, during the time when Antalya was under Italian military occupation, Italian archeologists started removing archeological treasures that had been found in the city center and surrounding the Italian Embassy, which they claimed to do in the name of civilization. To prevent these initiatives, Süleyman Fikri Bey, the Sultan's advisor, applied to the Antalya post of provincial governor in 1919, had himself appointed as voluntary curator of antiquities, and first established Antalya Museum to try and collect what remained in the center. The museum at first operated in the Alâeddin Mosque in 1922, then in Yivli Minare Mosque beginning from 1937, and then moved to its present building in 1972. It was closed to visitors for a wide range of modifications and restorations in 1982. It was reorganized according to modern museum concepts and opened to the public in April 1985, after the restorations and display arrangements made by the General Directorate of Ancient Objects and Museums.
Overview
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- There is an admission fee to enter the Antalya Museum.
- Many exhibit descriptions are in Turkish only, but multilingual audio guides are available to rent.
- Plan at least an hour to visit the museum, more if you want to take in all of the exhibits.
- The museum also has a dedicated children’s exhibition, with interactive activities and miniature models.
- Most areas of the museum are wheelchair-accessible.
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Your day will begin with a private guide and driver picking you up from your hotel. The tour guide will escort you first to the Antalya Archeology Museum. At the museum you will be transported back in time as you discover the rich history of Turkey and Antalya. Your second destination will be the picturesque and stunning Duden Waterfall. There you will have an opportunity to soak in the views of the Antalya coastline and green park surrounding the falls. Next your guide will transport you to Antalya’s Old City center. There you will be given a walking tour of the historical district, Kaleici, with opportunities for shopping and sightseeing. Your tour will conclude with your guide returning you to your hotel at around 17:00. Small Group, 15 people max Well thought out enjoyable tour route and pace Educated English Speaking Guide Shopping stops only if requested Book and pay online No hidden costs_en-US
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$243.12 USD
Our local guides' selection of favorite locations. The programme is organised to make the most of your time in this beautiful city, to avoid crowds and the hottest part of the day. The tour is designed to make it easy to link with your other holiday activities in Turkey. _en-US
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Picture yourself standing at the entrance of the Antalya Museum, surrounded by the scent of ancient history intermingled with the faint fragrance of spring blossoms. As you step inside, the cool, dimly lit halls welcome you with a gentle embrace, the soft echo of footsteps guiding your way.
Your journey begins as you come face to face with a magnificent statue of Apollo, his serene gaze capturing your attention. The smooth marble beneath your fingertips tells the tale of centuries past, invoking a sense of wonder at the skill and craftsmanship of the ancient artists.
Moving deeper into the museum, you discover a collection of intricate mosaic tiles, each one a portrait of a bygone era. The colors are still vibrant, the patterns mesmerizing, drawing you into a world of ancient myths and legends. You can almost hear the whisper of stories that these mosaics hold, tales of love, betrayal, and heroism etched into each tile.
As you wander through the halls, the sound of distant laughter reaches your ears. You follow the sound to a room filled with life-sized statues of ancient Greek gods and goddesses, their chiseled features seemingly alive with emotion. You feel a sense of awe and reverence in their presence, as if you are standing in the presence of deities themselves.
In the final hall of the museum, you come face to face with the crown jewel of the collection - the sarcophagus of King Sidon. The intricate carvings and detailed inscriptions tell the story of a great ruler, his victories, his defeats, his legacy. Standing before this monumental piece of history, you feel a wave of respect and admiration for the ancient civilizations that came before us.
As you reluctantly make your way towards the exit, the memory of your visit lingers on, a tapestry of sights, sounds, and emotions woven into the fabric of your being. The Antalya Museum has touched your soul, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the past.
And as you step back out into the warmth of the sun, you carry with you the echoes of history, a reminder of the enduring power of art and culture to uplift and inspire the human spirit.
The Antalya Museum does offer audio descriptive guides for visitors with visual impairments. Sensory-friendly hours are not specifically mentioned on their website or in their accessibility information. Visitors with sensory sensitivities may want to contact the museum directly in advance to inquire about any accommodations that can be made during their visit.
Located in the heart of Antalya, Antalya Museum is not only a treasure trove of ancient artifacts but also a source of inspiration for local writers and artists.
Local writer Aylin Öztürk describes the museum as a place where the past comes alive. "Walking through the halls of the Antalya Museum is like stepping back in time," she says. "The artifacts on display tell stories of ancient civilizations that once thrived in this region, and it’s truly awe-inspiring to see the intricate details and craftsmanship that went into creating them."
For artist Serkan Erdem, the museum is a source of creative energy. "I often visit the museum to study the sculptures and reliefs from the Hellenistic and Roman periods," he explains. "The beauty and complexity of these artworks never fail to inspire me in my own creations. There’s something magical about being in the presence of such masterpieces."
Local poet Derya Yılmaz finds solace in the peaceful atmosphere of the museum. "Whenever I need a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life, I come to the Antalya Museum," she says. "The serene surroundings and the ancient artifacts have a calming effect on me, allowing me to reconnect with myself and find inspiration for my poetry."
Overall, the Antalya Museum holds a special place in the hearts of local writers and artists, serving as a place of wonder, inspiration, and reflection.
### Directions and Transportation
- Address: Konyaaltı Caddesi No: 88, 07100 Antalya, Turkey.
- Public Transport: The museum is easily accessible by public transportation like buses and trams. The nearest tram stop is "Museum" (Müze) which is located right in front of the entrance.
- Taxi/Ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available in Antalya, and you can easily reach the museum by providing the address to the driver.
### Accessibility Information
- The museum is wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators for visitors with mobility issues.
- There are also services available for visitors with visual or hearing impairments, such as braille information and sign language interpreters (advanced notice may be required).
### Ticket Booking and Discounts
- Ticket Booking: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the museum’s ticket office. Online ticket booking options may also be available on the official website or through third-party ticketing platforms.
- Discounts: Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and children. Keep an eye out for any promotions or special offers that may provide discounted entry.
### Local Amenities
- Parking: The museum offers parking facilities for visitors arriving by car. There are designated parking spaces for disabled visitors as well.
- Restrooms: Restrooms with accessible facilities are available inside the museum for visitors’ convenience.
- Dining: The museum may have a café or restaurant on-site where visitors can grab a bite to eat. There should be options available to cater to various dietary needs. Nearby restaurants and cafes are also options for those looking for different dining choices.