“A peaceful sanctuary for diverse souls.” That is what comes to mind. Here at Kilyos Mezarlığı, we find more than just a resting place. It is a testament to Istanbul’s diverse communities.
Kilyos Mezarlığı is located in the Sarıyer district. Specifically, it is in the Kilyos neighborhood of Istanbul. This cemetery serves as a final resting place for many. It includes Muslims, Baháʼís, and Jews with separate sections designated for each faith.
Since 2014, many Syrians who passed away in Istanbul have been buried here. They rest in sections Ada 27 and 22. In fact, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kilyos Mezarlığı became a primary burial site. It served Istanbul’s European side.
Established in 1991 by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality. The Jewish section saw its first burial in 2011. The Neve Shalom Foundation manages its burial and maintenance services. Also, a small synagogue is at the entrance.
Many prominent figures rest here at Kilyos Mezarlığı. Bilgin Adalı rests here. He was a renowned Turkish poet and writer. Çelik Gülersoy is also buried here. He was a Turkish manager and writer. Ekrem Amaç who was a Turkish lawyer and politician rests here as well. Erdoğan Seren a Turkish actor also rests here. Fevzi Aksoy a Turkish academic and sports writer is buried here too. Hakkı Devrim a Turkish journalist and publisher also rests here. İsmet Yurtsü a former Turkish national football player also rests here. Mustafa Kemal Kurdaş a Turkish statesman and university rector is buried here. The Turkish actor Müşfik Kenter rests here. Nedret Güvenç who was a Turkish actress, director, voice artist, and writer is also buried here. Osman Wöber a Turkish actor and director rests here. Sencer Divitçioğlu a Turkish academician is also buried here. Süheyl Denizci a Turkish musician also rests here. Şerif Mardin a Turkish sociologist and political scientist is buried here. Yalçın Granit a Turkish basketball player, coach, and journalist also rests here. Lastly Ziya Taner a Turkish technical director rests here.
Kilyos Mezarlığı is more than just a burial ground. It reflects Istanbul’s rich social and cultural tapestry. As we wander through this serene space, we remember the lives of those who shaped Turkish society. From artists to athletes, their legacies live on. They echo through the stones of Kilyos Mezarlığı.