Sirkehane (Ege University Balkans and Anatolia Costumes Museum)
Thought to have been built by a Greek family in the late 19th century, the Sirkehane served as the food production unit of Ege University Faculty of Agriculture throughout the 20th century. After restoration completed in 2010, the building was opened as the "EU Balkans and Anatolia Costumes Museum," making it the first museum established in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture within a university in Turkey.
Introduction
The Sirkehane building in Bornova was built between the late 19th and early 20th centuries by a Greek family. Having been used for different functions over time, the building has today been reclaimed for cultural heritage as the Ege University Balkans and Anatolian Costumes Museum.
History and Transformation
- Late 19th – early 20th century: The building was constructed as a residence by a Greek family living in Bornova at the time.
- 1943: Transferred to the Treasury of the Republic of Turkey.
- 1960s: Used by the Ege University Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Food and Fermentation Technology, as a vinegar and pickle production facility (rear section); the front section served as staff accommodation.
- 1990: Transferred from the Treasury to Ege University by means of a property exchange.
- 1990s–2000s: Continued in use as accommodation; over time the greater part of the building fell into disrepair.
- 2010: Restored by Ege University and opened as the Balkans and Anatolian Costumes Museum.
Architectural Features
- Two-storey, built of mixed stone and brick.
- The plain yet balanced façade characteristic of classical Greek residential architecture has been preserved.
- During restoration the original load-bearing walls and window arches were retained; the interior was rearranged to suit the museum function.
- On the front section, early 20th-century balcony and door details were faithfully restored.
Present Use
Opened to visitors in 2010, the Ege University Balkans and Anatolian Costumes Museum holds the distinction of being the first museum established within a Turkish university in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
The museum collection includes:
- Traditional costumes, jewellery and textile specimens gathered from Anatolia and the Balkans,
- A repertoire of fabrics, motifs and colours reflecting cultural transitions,
- Ethnographic artefacts.
The building symbolises the reclamation of Bornova's industrial heritage for the fields of education and culture as one of the most successful examples of functional transformation.
Photo Gallery
Location Info
Thought to have been built by a Greek family in the late 19th century, the Sirkehane served as the food production unit of Ege University Faculty of Agriculture throughout the 20th century. After restoration completed in 2010, the building was opened as the "EU Balkans and Anatolia Costumes Museum," making it the first museum established in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture within a university in Turkey.
