Dramalilar Mansion and Family Bathhouse
Located in the Erzene neighborhood, the Dramalilar Mansion dates to the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The mansion is notable for its outbuildings and private family bathhouse. Allocated to the Dramali Family, who came to Bornova during the 1924 population exchange, the building is an important cultural heritage that brings together the Levantine mansion tradition with post-exchange life.
Introduction
Although the precise date of construction of the Dramalılar Mansion is not known, the building is thought to date from the late 18th to the early 19th century. Over time, spatial alterations have been made to the main building and its annexes. Throughout its history the mansion has been used as a residence.
Family Bathhouse
One of the notable elements of the complex is the private family bathhouse. Comprising two chambers — a cold room and a hot room — this bathhouse was used by the mansion's residents for many years; in later periods it also served as a public establishment.
Spatial Layout
The building complex consists of the main house, kitchen, bathhouse, gatehouse (selamlık), service quarters and stables. The south-western side of the mansion faces the front courtyard, whilst the north-eastern side looks onto the rear courtyard.
Historical Background
The mansion was allocated to the Dramalı family, who emigrated from the city of Drama in Greece as part of the 1924 population exchange, under the property-matching protocol provided for exchangees. The family earned their living through tobacco cultivation.
Cultural Significance
The Dramalılar Mansion and Bathhouse are a valuable heritage representing both Levantine mansion architecture and the new layer of life added to Bornova in the wake of the population exchange.
Photo Gallery
Location Info
Located in the Erzene neighborhood, the Dramalilar Mansion dates to the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The mansion is notable for its outbuildings and private family bathhouse. Allocated to the Dramali Family, who came to Bornova during the 1924 population exchange, the building is an important cultural heritage that brings together the Levantine mansion tradition with post-exchange life.
