Did you know that the Mehmet Akif Ersoy Evi ve Müzesi holds the spirit of a national hero? It stands here in Ankara as a tribute to Mehmet Akif Ersoy. He was the writer of the Turkish National Anthem. This house museum is more than just a building. It is a symbol of a nation’s struggle and its literary soul.
Mehmet Akif Ersoy lived in this house during the War of Independence. He was a Member of Parliament from Burdur at the time. The head preacher of the Tacettin Order admired Ersoy greatly. He allocated the “selamlık” part of this house for Ersoy’s use. It was within these walls that Ersoy penned the words of the National Anthem.
The City Council recognized the house’s importance. On October 30, 1949 they named it Mehmet Akif Ersoy Evi. It was transformed into a museum. Unfortunately, it was neglected and fell into disrepair.
Professor İhsan Doğramacı played a crucial role in the museum’s revival. During the foundation of Hacettepe University’s Central Campus, he had the building restored. The house was then opened to the public.
In 1982, further restoration became necessary. A fund was established with contributions from various organizations. These included the Ministry of Culture and the General Directorate of Charitable Trusts. The Turkish Religious Affairs Foundation and private individuals also contributed. The restoration and furnishing were completed. On December 24, 1984 the house was reopened with a ceremony.
The Mehmet Akif Ersoy Evi is enclosed by high walls. A small door provides access to the courtyard. The house itself is a typical two-story Ankara house made of timber.
Photographs of Ersoy line the wooden staircase leading to the upper floor. Upstairs, you will find a meeting room and a resting room. The meeting room boasts a beautiful Ankara ceiling. It features a hexagonal center adorned with chisel decorations.
The museum displays invaluable items belonging to Mehmet Akif Ersoy. These include his spectacles, pocket watch and rosary. A gun that belonged to him is also on display. You can also see a mask of the great poet’s face.
The Mehmet Akif Ersoy Evi ve Müzesi is a place to reflect. It is a place to honor a man who shaped Turkish identity. It stands as a testament to his enduring legacy.
The museum is located at Hacettepe, Mehmet Akif Ersoy Sk. 9 C, Altındağ, Ankara. It’s near other museums like the Museum of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Also nearby are the Poet and Writers House Museum and the Gökyay Foundation Chess Museum.
Visiting hours are from 10:00 to 17:00. It is open Tuesday through Sunday. Admission to the Mehmet Akif Ersoy Evi ve Müzesi is free. Take your time as you walk through it. Absorb the history within these walls. Remember the poet who gave voice to a nation’s soul.