Martyr Cuma Dağ Natural History Museum

Museum in Ankara

In the heart of Ankara, the Martyr Cuma Dağ Natural History Museum — also known as the National Museum of Natural History — offers a captivating journey through the universe, Earth's geological past, and the diversity of life. Established in 1968, it remains Türkiye's first and only museum dedicated to natural history. With four floors of thoughtfully curated exhibits, this museum is one of the top attractions in Ankara, especially for science enthusiasts, families, and anyone curious about how our planet came to be.

History and Significance
Things to See and Do
How to Get There
Practical Tips
Is the Martyr Cuma Dağ Natural History Museum Worth Visiting?
Nearby Attractions

History and Significance

The Martyr Cuma Dağ Natural History Museum opened its doors in 1968 and moved to its current modern building in 2003. Named in honor of Martyr Cuma Dağ, the museum continues to inspire curiosity and scientific awareness. It houses nearly 100,000 samples and operates as both a research institution and an educational hub, engaging schools and visitors across Türkiye through its “Traveling Museum Activities” and hands-on science projects.

Beyond its exhibitions, the museum's laboratories for paleontology, mineralogy, petrography, and gemology make it a center for ongoing research, contributing to the preservation and study of Türkiye's geological and biological heritage.

Things to See and Do

The museum unfolds across four fascinating floors, each offering something unique:

Ground Floor: Begin your visit with a cosmic perspective in the Space and Solar System section, featuring meteorites and the famous “thunderstone.” Nearby, the diorama hall showcases Türkiye's flora and fauna — from common birds to rare and endangered species like the Anatolian panther. Fossil lovers will enjoy seeing the remains of extinct giants such as the Maraş elephant and Gomphotherium angustidens.
Visually Impaired Section: A thoughtful area with tactile exhibits and Braille labels ensures accessibility for all visitors.
Second Floor: Explore the Earth's crust through displays of minerals, rocks, and metallic ores. The Gemstones Section glitters with colorful crystals from Türkiye and around the world, while the Mining History of Türkiye exhibit traces humanity's evolving relationship with natural resources — from Bronze Age tools to modern mining.
Third Floor: The Science Tunnel, added in 2017, offers an immersive experience featuring geological heritage sites of Türkiye, South African safari parks, vibrant flower displays, and underwater reef ecosystems.

This museum is a highlight of any walking tour of Ankara, combining education, interactivity, and visual appeal in equal measure.

How to Get There

The museum is located within Ankara's city center, easily accessible by bus, metro, or taxi. The nearest metro stop is Kurtuluş, about a 10-minute walk away. Those driving can find limited parking nearby.

Practical Tips

Best time to visit: Year-round, especially on weekdays for fewer crowds
Entrance fee in Euros: Around €2–€3
Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Mondays)
How long to spend: 1.5–2 hours
Accessibility: Excellent; includes facilities for visually impaired visitors
Facilities: Restrooms, museum shop, educational areas
Photography tip: The gemstone displays and dioramas are especially photogenic under natural lighting
Guided tours: Offered for school groups and available upon request
Nearby food options: Cafes and restaurants around the Kurtuluş and Kızılay districts

Is the Martyr Cuma Dağ Natural History Museum Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Whether you're fascinated by fossils, dazzled by gemstones, or intrigued by outer space, the museum offers a rare opportunity to explore the natural world in a hands-on, beautifully organized way. It's a great place to visit on a walking tour of Ankara, especially for families and those who appreciate science and discovery.

Nearby Attractions

Museum of Anatolian Civilizations – A world-class museum showcasing Türkiye's archaeological heritage
Erimtan Archaeology & Art Museum – A stunning modern museum blending art and history
Ankara Castle – Offering panoramic views and charming old-city streets
Hacettepe University Museum – Another cultural stop nearby for academic and historical exhibits

The Martyr Cuma Dağ Natural History Museum isn't just a showcase of specimens — it's a celebration of curiosity, evolution, and the endless wonders of the natural world, right in the heart of Ankara.

The Martyr Cuma Dağ Natural History Museum appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Ankara!

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