Şale Apartmanı

Tucked away in Kadıköy, Istanbul, stands the unassuming Şale Apartmanı. This seemingly ordinary building holds an extraordinary secret. It was the primary filming location for the beloved Turkish television series, “Bizimkiler.” Şale Apartmanı became the iconic backdrop for the lives, loves, and laughter of the families who resided within its fictional walls. “Bizimkiler,” meaning “Our Folk,” captivated audiences for 15 seasons, from 1989 to 2002. The show offered a heartwarming and humorous portrayal of Turkish family life and the dynamics of a close-knit apartment community. Şale Apartmanı, with its five levels and distinct architecture, became synonymous with the show. It’s where the memorable characters of Şükrü, Nazan, Şevket, and Sabri Bey came to life. The series’ creator, Umur Bugay, actually wrote an astounding 24,500 scenes and 388,495 lines of dialogue, many of which unfolded right here at Şale Apartmanı. While the interior scenes were filmed elsewhere, the exterior of Şale Apartmanı, particularly the front facade and entrance, remained a constant throughout the show’s long run. The director, Yalçın Yelence, even resided in the building, further solidifying the connection between the real and fictional worlds. Today, Şale Apartmanı continues to stand, a nostalgic reminder of a beloved television series. It’s a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the way a simple apartment building can become a cultural icon. Şale Apartmanı isn’t just a building. It’s a time capsule, holding within its bricks and mortar the memories of a show that touched the hearts of millions.