Miniatürk: A Treasure of Turkey’s History
Miniatürk, known as the “Big Country, Small Model,” was inaugurated on May 2, 2003, by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality as one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Istanbul. This unique park serves as a living exhibition of Turkey’s cultural and architectural heritage, showcasing various historical artifacts on a miniature scale.
A Journey Through History: From Ancient Times to the Ottoman Empire
With the slogan “Big Country, Small Model,” Miniatürk brings together 139 historical works from different periods of Turkish history. These works include:
-
62 works from Istanbul, such as:
- Hagia Sophia
- The Blue Mosque
- Topkapi Palace
- Suleymaniye Mosque
- The Grand Bazaar
-
64 works from Anatolia, including:
- Temple of Artemis at Ephesus
- Ephesus Theatre
- Burial Mounds in Patara
- St. John’s Basilica in Selanik
-
13 works from Ottoman regions outside Turkey, such as:
- The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus
- Selimiye Mosque in Edirne
- Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s House in Thessaloniki
These models are precisely created at a scale of 1/25, allowing visitors to explore Turkey’s rich history closely.
Beyond History: Natural and Historical Landmarks on Display
Miniatürk does not solely focus on historical monuments. It also includes natural wonders such as Pamukkale and Mount Nemrut, along with ancient temples like the Temple of Artemis and the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. The park aims to present all aspects of Turkey’s geography and natural beauty on a miniature scale.
A Complete Experience with Numerous Facilities
Miniatürk offers a range of amenities for visitors, including:
- Educational and cultural projects
- Playgrounds and recreational spaces for children
- Restaurants and cafes
- Gift and souvenir shops
- A parking area with a capacity for 300 cars
- Leisure areas such as a tourist train and playgrounds
Mobile Audio Guide: An Easy and Enjoyable Tour
To enhance visitors’ convenience, Miniatürk offers a mobile audio guide app in 9 languages, including Turkish, English, French, German, Russian, Arabic, Persian, Japanese, and Spanish. The app provides interactive maps and detailed information about each exhibit, helping visitors have an informative and enjoyable experience.
Miniatürk: The Cultural Heart of Turkey
With its small yet comprehensive representation of Turkey’s history and culture, Miniatürk is a cultural project and social responsibility initiative, allowing visitors to experience Turkey’s rich and diverse history in just one day. With its variety of facilities and services, it has become an ideal destination for both local and international tourists.
