Bayazhan Gaziantep City Museum

 Bayazhan is a historic building in Gaziantep, originally built in 1909 by Bayaz Ahmet Efendi, a wealthy tobacco merchant. Inspired by architecture in Aleppo, Syria, he partnered with an Armenian businessman and employed Armenian stone masters to construct the building, a process that took 5-6 years to complete.

A Building That Witnessed War, Industry & Cinema

Early Years: A Tobacco Ranch

• Initially, Bayazhan functioned as a tobacco ranch, reflecting Gaziantep’s thriving trade economy at the time.
• The blend of Ottoman and Armenian architectural elements made it a unique structure in the city.

Military Headquarters & Temporary Prison (During British Occupation)

• During battles with the British, Bayazhan was used as a military headquarters.
• Later, it served as a temporary prison during the defense of Gaziantep in Turkey’s War of Independence.

First Cinema in Gaziantep

• After peace was restored, Bayazhan was used for recreation, including serving as the venue for Gaziantep’s first-ever film screening in its Great Hall.

A Change in Ownership & Decline

In 1919, Bayaz Ahmet Efendi passed away, and his family used their share of the building to produce the famous Turkish aniseed liquor, Raki.

• Meanwhile, his Armenian business partner sold his share to a Muslim sect, which later sold it to TEKEL, a state-run tobacco company.

After TEKEL closed, the building was neglected, with the local community considering it cursed due to its abandoned state.

Restoration & Rebirth as a Cultural Hub

In 2005, the Mayor of Gaziantep initiated the purchase and restoration of Bayazhan.

• By 2009, the building was reopened as a museum and cultural center, preserving Gaziantep’s rich traditions and heritage.

What You’ll Find at Bayazhan Today:

• Ground Floor: Souvenir shops, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere welcoming visitors.
• First Floor:
  • Cultural Museum of Gaziantep, where each room is dedicated to showcasing daily life in the city, accompanied by audio descriptions.
  • Antique displays featuring gas lanterns, looms, old photography equipment, and other historical artifacts.

Why Visit Bayazhan?

• From a tobacco ranch to a military stronghold, a cinema, and now a museum, Bayazhan’s walls tell a fascinating story of Gaziantep’s past.
• The blend of Ottoman and Armenian craftsmanship, along with the well-preserved historical artifacts, makes it a must-visit destination for history lovers.
• The interactive museum experience offers a deep dive into Gaziantep’s traditions, making it an educational and cultural attraction.

Explore Bayazhan with Alaturca Tours and uncover the unique heritage of Gaziantep!