Established in 1874 Istanbul University Faculty of Law stands before you. It’s Turkey’s first law school a testament to a rich legal history. Initially named Mekteb-i Hukuk-i Sultani it faced closures and name changes. It was briefly incorporated into the Darülfünun-ı Osmani. In 1919 it became the Darülfünun Faculty of Law. Finally in 1933 it received its current name.
The faculty’s history is interwoven with Turkey’s own. It played a significant role in shaping the nation’s legal framework. Its influence extended beyond Turkey’s borders. Many prominent figures studied within these walls. Their contributions shaped the legal landscape in many ways.
After the Darülfünun’s dissolution in 1933 the faculty joined Istanbul University. It then saw an influx of academics. Many were from Nazi Germany. They were fleeing the political climate. Professors Andreas B Schwarz Ernst E Hirsch and Richard Honig are among them. Their presence enriched the institution’s intellectual landscape.
Today Istanbul University Faculty of Law boasts a vast library. It has over 116000 books and 25600 journals. It’s Turkey’s largest law library. It’s also the first to provide 24/7 access. The library houses the faculty’s own academic journals. These include the Istanbul University Faculty of Law Journal. There’s also the Annales de la Faculté de Droit d’Istanbul. These showcase the faculty’s contributions to legal scholarship.
The faculty’s commitment to international collaboration is evident. It actively participates in Erasmus student and faculty exchanges. A notable partnership is with Hamburg University. Together they offer a joint law degree program. It’s a four-year program taught in both Turkish and German. Students receive dual diplomas from both universities. This program showcases the faculty’s global reach.
The faculty’s legacy is not just about its esteemed alumni. It’s about its constant adaptation to the changing legal world. It’s about its commitment to excellence in legal education. Istanbul University Faculty of Law remains a pivotal institution. It stands as a symbol of legal education and scholarship in Turkey.