Erimtan Archaeology & Art Museum, Ankara

Museum in Ankara

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Dosseman

Nestled in the historic Kale district of Ankara, the Erimtan Archaeology & Art Museum blends the old and new in perfect harmony. With its sleek modern lines set against the backdrop of Ankara Castle's stone walls, it's a museum that speaks to both history lovers and art enthusiasts. This spot is one of the top sights in Ankara, offering a refined experience that reveals the beauty of Anatolia's past while celebrating the creativity of the present.

History and Significance
Things to See and Do
How to Get There
Practical Tips
Is the Erimtan Archaeology & Art Museum Worth Visiting?
Nearby Attractions

History and Significance

The Erimtan Archaeology & Art Museum was founded by collector and engineer Yüksel Erimtan, whose passion for history led him to gather over 2,000 ancient artifacts from across Anatolia. Opened in 2015, the museum quickly became a cultural landmark, known not just for its collection but also for its thoughtful design and vibrant programming.

The building itself is a work of art - minimalist yet warm, using glass, stone, and light to highlight the textures of the past. The museum tells stories of ancient civilizations through carefully curated displays of jewelry, ceramics, glass, and coins spanning thousands of years.

Things to See and Do

Inside, visitors can explore three main galleries organized thematically, tracing human creativity from the Bronze Age to the Byzantine era. Each object is displayed with precision, often accompanied by multimedia presentations that bring ancient craftsmanship to life. Highlights include intricately designed Roman glassware, delicate Hellenistic jewelry, and early Anatolian pottery.

Beyond the artifacts, the museum frequently hosts art exhibitions, chamber music concerts, and cultural events, making it a highlight of any walking tour of Ankara. Its small café overlooking the old city is a quiet haven - perfect for taking a break and reflecting on the layers of history surrounding you.

How to Get There

The museum is located in the Kale (Citadel) area of Ankara, a short walk from the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. It's easily accessible by taxi, bus, or metro (Ulus station is the closest stop). The narrow cobblestone streets around the Citadel are best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes.

Practical Tips

Best time to visit: Year-round, but spring and autumn are ideal for exploring the surrounding area on foot
Entrance fee in Euros: Around €2-€3
Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (closed Mondays)
Official website: erimtanmuseum.org
How long to spend: 1-1.5 hours
Accessibility: Fully accessible, with ramps and elevators
Facilities: Café, museum shop, restrooms, event spaces
Photography tip: The interplay of light and shadow inside the galleries makes for beautiful indoor photos
Guided tours: Available on request, often in English and Turkish
Nearby food options: Several restaurants and cafes in the Kale district offering Turkish and international dishes

Is the Erimtan Archaeology & Art Museum Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Whether you're exploring Ankara's old quarter or seeking a quieter cultural experience, Erimtan offers a perfect blend of ancient heritage and modern presentation. It's a great place to visit on a walking tour of Ankara, ideal for travelers who enjoy both archaeology and design. The museum's atmosphere is calm and inspiring - a reflection of how contemporary Turkey embraces its deep historical roots.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (1,551)

Erimtan Archaeology and Art Museum is a private, compact museum near Ankara Castle presenting a small but well-curated collection of archaeological artifacts alongside contemporary art, with thoughtful layout and lighting that enhance the displays; visitors note it can be seen in 20–40 minutes (or up to 1–2 hours for a more in-depth visit), and praise its exhibition and architectural design, a modest souvenir shop, and a cafe with city views and friendly staff—though some visitors have criticized certain artifact descriptions as overly Roman-focused despite Anatolian material being present.

ilkay atamer

3 months ago

"I think the descriptions of the artifacts in this museum are problematic and inaccurate. It's as if no one but the Romans lived in Anatolia. Anyonewho visits the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, 100 meters below, will understand the situation...."

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Gus

a year ago

"This is a very small museum, with a nice small collection. Going around it will take you from 20-40 minutes. The reasons you should visit this museumare:n1. You have already seen the Anatolian Civilizations Museum that is a couple of meters next to this one.n2. You don’t have time for the Anatolian civilization museum which can take from 40min-1hour+n3. You want to enjoy this museum’s café and with a nice view of the city...."

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Kutay Karabag

2 years ago

"Although it is a small museum, it is one of the most original and qualified examples of museum and exhibition design in Turkey. I highly recommend itto anyone with a special interest in museology, exhibition, architectural design, architectural transformation and lighting design. The small but qualified souvenir section is also interesting. After completing the exhibitions, it is also a great pleasure to sit and drink coffee in the garden with an Ankara view. For a proper one of a kind visit, you need to spare 1-2 hours of your time...."

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Nearby Attractions

Museum of Anatolian Civilizations - Türkiye's premier archaeology museum, just a few steps away
Ankara Castle - Panoramic views of the city from ancient fortifications
Rahmi M. Koç Museum - A fascinating museum of industry and technology nearby
Hamamönü - A beautifully restored district full of cafes, galleries, and crafts

Elegant, educational, and unexpectedly tranquil, the Erimtan Archaeology & Art Museum is where Ankara's past and present meet - a must-see for anyone looking to experience the city's cultural depth.

The Erimtan Archaeology & Art Museum appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Ankara!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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