Trabzon Sanatevi transfer to university sparks local controversy

Controversy has erupted in Trabzon following a decision by the Trabzon Governorship to evict the cultural, art, and literature associations operating within the Trabzon Sanatevi. The facility is intended to be transferred to Trabzon University for educational purposes.

Local officials and political figures have voiced strong opposition to the move. Cüneyit Zorlu, Deputy Mayor of Ortahisar, argued that the justification of providing space for education does not legitimize the removal of the center’s cultural function. He noted that the city already has limited artistic spaces and suggested that the university could utilize alternative buildings, such as the restored Yavuz Selim Primary School.

Burak Turhan, Ortahisar District Chairman of the Saadet Party, also criticized the decision, calling it a contradiction to claim Trabzon is a city of arts while simultaneously removing the production and meeting spaces used by artists. He emphasized that the Sanatevi has historically contributed to the city’s cultural identity and brand value by hosting national and international artists.