Darphane-i Amire complex to open five museums after restoration

The historic Darphane-i Amire complex, located in the first courtyard of Topkapı Palace, is set to open to the public following a seven-year restoration and repurposing project. Managed by the National Palaces Administration, the 17,000-square-meter site consists of 17 buildings that once hosted the Ottoman Empire's minting activities.

The complex will feature five specialized museums showcasing over 10,000 artifacts from various eras. Collections include porcelain, calligraphy (hüsn-i hat), weaponry, maps, and industrial history. Yasin Yıldız, President of the National Palaces Administration, noted that the restoration was led by a scientific committee to preserve heritage that was previously at risk of disappearing.

A ceremony involving President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is scheduled for October 24, with the museums officially opening to visitors on October 25.