Istanbul Military Museum, Istanbul

Called the Askeri Müze by locals, this museum is dedicated to 1000 years of the Turkish military’s history. Originally the museum was opened in the Saint Irene Church only to be shifted to the First Army Headquarters building during the 1950s. Its current location is not far from Taksim Square in Cumhuriyet Caddesi, Harbiye district. The word “Harb” translates to “warfare” from the Turkish language and this site is an important military installation. The Ottoman Imperial Military Academy was also located here.

The museum hosts a fine display of uniforms, historical weapons and tools from various periods of the Turkish army’s history. A rail gun, Ottoman cannons, mortars, aircraft and a helicopter are all on display outside the edifice. Its most magnificent display is of campaign tents and standards present inside the museum. Historical army relics like the Byzantine chain that was stretched across the Golden Horn during the siege of Constantinople to keep out invaders in 1453 are also displayed.

Temporary exhibits, meetings and cultural events are held in the East Wing, while the ground floor features displays of bows and arrows, curved daggers, lancets and other weapons.

Why You Should Visit:
You don't need to be a military buff to appreciate amazing items from the Ottoman Era to World War II.

Tip:
Arrive at 3pm to experience the marching band that takes you to old Turkish military times – it is free and a fantastic half-hour performance (you can take photos with the band at the end).
Go right as you leave the building, then around the corner and straight ahead to find a staff cafe that serves simple food at very cheap prices.