Diyarbakır Ziya Gökalp Museum

Ziya Gökalp Museum: A Legacy of "We Are"

The Ziya Gökalp Museum is one of the finest examples of 19th-century civil architecture in Diyarbakır. It is the birthplace of the influential Turkish writer and sociologist Ziya Gökalp, who was born here in 1876.

This house, which came into Gökalp's family possession in 1824, has a unique layout compared to other Diyarbakır homes. It is built around a central courtyard with three wings, but instead of the traditional central courtyard pool, it features a pool placed inside an eyvan (a vaulted hall). The house was originally divided into "harem" (family quarters) and "selamlık" (guest quarters).

In 1956, the two sections of the house were expropriated and purchased by local authorities. The harem section was later organized by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and opened to the public as the Ziya Gökalp Museum.

While You're Here

While visiting the museum, you might also consider exploring these nearby sites:

Cahit Sıtkı Tarancı House and Ethnography Museum: Tour the home of another famous Turkish poet.

Diyarbakır Grand Mosque: Visit this historic mosque, considered the 5th holiest site in the Islamic world. Afterward, enjoy a traditional breakfast at the famous Hasan Paşa Inn across the street.

Diyarbakır Archaeological Museum: Located within the Inner Castle, this museum provides a fascinating look into the region's ancient past.

Prophet Süleyman Mosque and the Tombs of 27 Companions: This significant religious site is right next to the Archaeological Museum.

Ciğer Kebab: A trip to Diyarbakır is not complete without trying the famous ciğer kebab (liver kebab).