Erzurum Archaeology Museum

The Erzurum Archaeology Museum is a priceless repository of Anatolian history and culture, offering visitors a captivating journey into the past. It provides a unique experience for art and archaeology enthusiasts alike. To fully appreciate this historical treasure, a visit to the Erzurum Archaeology Museum is a must.

History of the Erzurum Archaeology Museum

The Erzurum Archaeology Museum, initially established in the Yakutiye Medrese, is among Turkey's largest archaeological museums. In 1947, it was relocated to the Çifte Minareli Medrese (Twin Minaret Madrasa). Over time, with continuous development and transformation, it has become a major cultural and historical hub in the region.

In 1968, a new museum building was inaugurated in the Murat Paşa district to accommodate the growing number of visitors. Covering 4,000 square meters, the museum’s exhibition hall displays invaluable artifacts unearthed from archaeological sites across the region and nearby provinces. 

The museum features extraordinary pieces from the Urartian culture and other historical periods, including inscriptions, weapons, sculptures, and more—each narrating fascinating stories of the past. In 1994, the collection was further enriched by the addition of the Turkish-Islamic Arts and Ethnography Museum, located in the Yakutiye Medrese. This expansion offers visitors a deeper appreciation of Turkish-Islamic art and culture and its connection to the region's history.

Address and Access to the Erzurum Archaeology Museum 

The Erzurum Archaeology Museum is located in the picturesque Yakutiye and Lalapaşa neighborhoods. It is easily accessible on foot from the Havuzbaşı area. For bus travelers, take the K4 line to the city center, then transfer to either the K5 or K6 lines for direct access to the museum.

Alternatively, renting a car in Turkey is a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the country. It allows visitors to reach various attractions quickly and without hassle.

What Historical Artifacts Are Housed in the Erzurum Archaeology Museum?

The Erzurum Archaeology Museum houses over 2,000 artifacts, including ancient relics, fossils, coins from various periods, and ethnographic items, offering invaluable insights into the civilizations and cultures of the region. It provides a comprehensive depiction of the lifestyles, art, religion, and traditions of the communities that once inhabited this area.

On the lower floor, visitors can explore exhibits such as mammoth fossils and relics from cultures spanning the Urartian, Hellenistic, and Iron Age periods. The upper floor focuses on artifacts from the Ottoman and Seljuk eras, along with artworks from these periods.

Sections of the Erzurum Archaeology Museum

The Erzurum Archaeology Museum comprises diverse sections that narrate a detailed story of the region's history and culture. Each section provides visitors with a unique and enriching experience.

Excavation Hall (Kazılar Salonu)

The Excavation Hall features artifacts unearthed from the region, including small statues, sacred fire altars, metal arrowheads, and pottery dating back to the 4th millennium BCE through the Seljuk period.

Roman, Hellenistic, and Transcaucasian Hall

This section showcases artifacts from the Roman, Hellenistic, and Transcaucasian periods, covering regions extending from the western shores of Lake Van to Lake Urmia and Georgia. Highlights include golden earrings, rings, diadems, glassware, and pottery. These treasures, obtained through excavations, acquisitions, and seizures, represent civilizations that thrived over 2,000 years BCE.

Coin and Urartian Hall

The Coin and Urartian Hall contains a remarkable collection of weaponry, agricultural tools, metal and ceramic vessels, decorative objects, and seals, illustrating the grandeur of the Urartian civilization (900–600 BCE). Renowned for constructing fortresses, dams, and advanced irrigation systems, this civilization flourished around the lakes of Van and Urmia and parts of Armenia.

Urartian Inscriptions and Natural History Hall

This section exhibits an invaluable collection of Urartian stone inscriptions, serving as critical historical records. Acquired through purchases and transfers, these inscriptions offer a rich resource for researchers and enthusiasts. Additionally, the hall features extraordinary fossils, including a 500,000-year-old mammoth fossil, alongside fossilized snails and plants, providing a glimpse into the Earth's distant past.

Armenian Genocide Hall

This hall is dedicated to artifacts from the 1918 Armenian genocide against Turks in Anatolia, perpetrated by Armenian committees. Items on display include amulets, buttons, tobacco boxes, crescent-and-star necklaces, and fragments of Qur’ans. These artifacts, uncovered during excavations in areas such as Timar Köyü, Yeşil Yayla, Alaca, and Obaköy, convey a somber narrative of this tragic historical event.

Hotels Near the Erzurum Archaeology Museum

Hotels near the Erzurum Archaeology Museum provide an excellent option for history and culture enthusiasts, offering convenient access to this popular attraction. Some notable choices include:

-          Otel Çınar: Located just 750 meters from the museum, it offers a prime location alongside quality services. 

-          Grand Çatalkaya Hotel: Situated approximately 890 meters from the museum, it is an ideal option for travelers seeking comfort and proximity to the city's historical sites.

-          Yedikapı Hotel: At 1.4 kilometers from the museum, this hotel is another attractive choice for accommodation. 

-          Otel Zade: Positioned 1.7 kilometers from the museum, it provides a convenient location paired with exceptional facilities.

These hotels, known for their strategic locations and high-quality amenities, have received positive reviews from guests, ensuring a pleasant stay. Their proximity to the museum allows visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of Erzurum with ease.

Opening Hours and Ticket Prices for the Erzurum Archaeology Museum

The Erzurum Archaeology Museum is open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, welcoming history and culture enthusiasts. Admission is priced at 5 Turkish Lira, while visitors with a MuseumCard can enjoy free entry, making it even more accessible to explore this historical treasure.

Events and Special Exhibitions at the Erzurum Archaeology Museum

The Erzurum Archaeology Museum plays a vital role in promoting local art and culture through its special events and exhibitions. Art workshops and periodic displays organized by the museum provide visitors with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the traditions and artistic expressions of the region.

These events feature activities such as traditional arts workshops and educational sessions led by local artists, offering visitors valuable insights into the intricacies of regional crafts and artistic heritage. Alongside providing an educational and unforgettable experience, these programs play a key role in preserving and passing down the local culture to future generations.

Tourist Attractions Near the Erzurum Archaeology Museum

Situated in the heart of Erzurum’s historic city center, the Archaeology Museum is surrounded by numerous attractions that promise visitors a rich and memorable experience. Below are some nearby landmarks:

-          Yakutiye Medrese

  This historic school, located a short distance from the museum, stands as a prime example of Seljuk architecture. With its exquisite stone inscriptions, it is one of Erzurum’s most iconic historical sites.

-          Lala Pasha Mosque

  Close to the museum, this Ottoman-era mosque captivates visitors with its remarkable Islamic art and intricate tilework, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts of Islamic architecture.

-          Erzurum Castle

  Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, this ancient fortress features imposing towers and walls, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s military history.

-          Rüstem Pasha Caravanserai

  Now transformed into a jewelry bazaar, this historic caravanserai blends traditional architecture with a vibrant atmosphere, providing a unique perspective on the region’s cultural and commercial legacy.

Exploring these attractions in conjunction with the Erzurum Archaeology Museum offers an excellent opportunity to delve deeper into the history, culture, and art of this extraordinary region.