A Unique Approach to Museology

Foundation and Vision

Founded in 2014 by collector and art enthusiast Nejat Çuhadaroğlu, Hisart takes its name from the combination of “His Art” and “History Art.” It holds the distinction of being the only Live History and Diorama Museum of its kind in the world.

The Founder’s Journey

From a young age, Nejat Çuhadaroğlu nurtured a passion for model-making and sculpture. Over the course of about 30 years, he built up this extensive collection entirely with his own resources and eventually opened it to the public.

History, Floor by Floor

Hisart offers a six-story journey through history, covering about 1,500 m².

• Ground Floor:
  Traces of the Roman, Byzantine, and Anatolian Seljuk periods, along with pre-Ottoman artifacts. Notable items include a unique talismanic shirt, an executioner’s sword, maces, battle axes, akıncı (raider) equipment, and dioramas depicting the Conquest of Constantinople.

• First Floor:
  The era from Sultan Selim III to the 1900s; rare Ottoman swords, pistols, banners, and the remarkable Zülfikar double-edged Turkish sword.

• Second Floor:
  Items from the Italo-Turkish War, Balkan Wars, and World War I. Features life-size replicas of Atatürk’s uniforms from three different wars, along with dioramas.

• Third Floor:
  Artifacts from the late stages of WWI, the Turkish War of Independence, and the early years of WWII.

• Fourth Floor:
  WWII in detail, as well as exhibits on the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cyprus Peace Operation, and the Gulf War.

• Sixth Floor – Hisart Café:
  More than just a resting spot, this floor has the feel of an exhibition space, with dioramas featuring Indiana Jones, Vikings, Pirates, Star Wars, and other iconic film scenes.

• Basement Level:
  Houses one of the museum’s most unique items — a Messerschmitt Bf 109-G6 “Gustav” aircraft from WWII, one of only three surviving examples worldwide.

  Richness of the Collection

  The museum showcases medals, engravings, paintings, personal belongings of important historical figures, and original military equipment, all arranged in chronological order. Highlights include Enver Pasha’s actual uniform, lifelike reproductions of Atatürk’s attire, and banners from the Ottoman dynasty — treasures that fascinate history lovers.

  Visitor Information

• Address:
  Hürriyet Mah., Dr. Cemil Bengü Cad. No: 21, 34403 Çağlayan / Kağıthane, Istanbul

• Phone:
  +90 (212) 296 98 04

• Opening Hours:

  • Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 – 18:00

  • Sunday: 12:00 – 18:00

  • Monday: Closed

• Admission Fees (2024–25):

  • Adults: ₺300

  • Students/Teachers: ₺150

  • Free entry for disabled visitors with one companion and for war veterans.

  • Museum Pass is not valid.

• Transportation:

  • Metro: M7 line to Çağlayan station, followed by a short walk.

  • Bus & Metrobus: Multiple lines stop near İstanbul Courthouse (İstanbul Adalet Sarayı), within walking distance.

  • Central location makes it easily accessible from many parts of the city.

    Why You Should Visit

  • Unique Presentation Style: Dioramas, wax figures, and life-size mannequins add a dramatic and educational dimension to historical storytelling.

  • Collection Richness: Rare historical artifacts, war uniforms, weapons, and personal items bring history vividly to life.

  • Educational and Entertaining: Suitable for both children and adults, offering a visually rich and intellectually satisfying experience.

  • Central Location: Situated in Çağlayan, close to shopping centers and transportation hubs, making it easy to combine your visit with other activities.