Odunpazarı Municipality challenges eviction of Kurşunlu Külliyesi

Odunpazarı Mayor Kazım Kurt has initiated legal action against the General Directorate of Foundations following an eviction notice for the Kurşunlu Külliyesi in Eskişehir. The municipality has filed a lawsuit in Administrative Court seeking the annulment of the decision and a stay of execution, arguing that the eviction is unlawful.

Mayor Kurt contends that the municipality officially accepted the terms required by the provisional 15th article of Law No. 5737, which allows for five-year lease extensions for tenants who meet foundation conditions. Despite this, the municipality received an eviction notice effective November 3, 2026. Kurt stated that the current legal challenge regarding the initial eviction decision is already in the appeals stage.

The mayor warned that an eviction would lead to irreparable damage to the site, which serves as a vital cultural and art hub. Potential consequences include the closure of three museums, the cessation of activities at the glass workshops and kilns, and the termination of international festivals. The move would impact 18 employees and approximately 20 local tradespeople.