Ladik Clock Tower in Samsun stops working again

The 137-year-old historic clock tower in the Ladik district of Samsun has ceased functioning once more. Built in 1889 by District Governor Reşit Bey, the tower serves as a significant cultural symbol for the local community.

The clock had previously been out of service for approximately 15 years due to mechanical failures before being restored in 2019. That restoration, which lasted about a month, was performed by an antique clock restorer from Bursa to recover the chiming functions.

Local residents have expressed concern regarding the stoppage, as the tower is central to the town's historical memory. While the 2019 intervention proved the mechanism could be revived, experts note that maintaining such antique mechanical clocks requires specialized parts and regular, costly maintenance to prevent issues caused by climate and mechanical wear. No official repair plan has been announced at this time.