Ten thousand people once worked here. That’s the staggering number that once filled the Istanbul Manifaturacilar Carsisi. We stand before a landmark of modern Turkish architecture a testament to a bygone era.
The IMÇ as it’s affectionately known isn’t just a shopping mall. It’s a microcosm of Istanbul’s history and spirit. Originally designed to serve drapers and manufacturers it transformed in the 1980s into the vibrant marketplace we see today.
Its creation was no simple task. The cooperative searching for a location initially eyed Haydarpaşa. However Fahrettin Kerim Gokay the then Governor and Mayor intervened. He proposed a sprawling 45000 square meter plot along Ataturk Boulevard. The land was acquired in 1959. A design competition followed. The winning entry from architects Dogan Tekeli Sami Sisa and Metin Hepguler defined the IMÇ’s distinctive character.
Construction finished in 1968. The IMÇ became the largest single construction project ever undertaken in Istanbul. Its 1117 shops restaurants and communal spaces showcased the best of Turkish design. It’s a truly remarkable feat of engineering and urban planning.
But IMÇ is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a canvas for art. Inspired by a law mandating the inclusion of art in public buildings architect Dogan Tekeli incorporated numerous works. These include pieces by renowned artists such as Kuzgun Acar Fureya Koral and Bedri Rahmi Eyuboglu. These pieces decorate the building. They are a testament to a time when art and architecture intertwined seamlessly. Sadly exposed to the elements these outdoor artworks faced deterioration. In 2022 Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University stepped in to preserve them.
The IMÇ has faced threats to its existence. Proposals to demolish parts to build housing sparked years of legal battles and protests. Thankfully the demolition plans were ultimately halted. The IMÇ survives as a symbol of resilience. It represents a powerful merging of commerce creativity and community spirit.
Today we see the IMÇ thriving. It’s a testament to the enduring legacy of those who envisioned it. It’s a place where the past and the present collide. It is a vibrant reflection of Istanbul’s dynamic spirit. A place to marvel at. A place to remember.