Museum of History of Science in Islam

Museum of History of Science in Islam Overview

The Museum of the History of Science & Technology in Islam aims to create a “synergy between the visual experience and the learning process on the part of the visitor.” As such, this museum, situated in Gulhane Park, details the history of Islamic scientific tradition from the 9th – 17th centuries through a series of replicas of its greatest achievements and inventions.

Located in the former Imperial stables of Topkapi Palace, the Museum is a joint endeavour by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey, the Turkish Academy of Sciences, Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality and Frankfurt’s Johann Wolfgang Goethe University.

The objects displayed serve to honour a number of the sciences including astronomy, geometry, chemistry, physics, optics, mineralogy, architecture, time measurement and war technology. They attempt to show how discoveries made across the Islamic world were adopted, altered and assimilated into European culture.

Visitors to the Museum will encounter a large globe outside the entrance. This globe maps with impressive accuracy the geography of the world as known at that time.

Other objects on display include replicas of a water clock from Fez and a six cylinder water pump, which made it possible to pump a constant stream of water.

Detailed texts in several languages accompany the major displays, and an in-depth catalogue of the museum is available for purchase.

The History of Science in Islam is situated in the gardens of Gulhane Park.

Practical Information:

Opening Hours: 9am - 4.30pm. Open every day except Tuesdays.

Tickets: 5TL.