Late soprano’s house to boost Safranbolu tourism

The belongings of Leyla Gencer, considered one of the important sopranos of the 20th century, will be exhibited at her father's hometown, Safranbolu, in the northern province of Karabük.

Gencer, a notable "bel canto" soprano, passed away 13 years ago in Milan. The soprano, who spent most of her career in Italy, became famous as "La Diva Turca," "La Gencer" and "La Regina."

The Safranbolu Culture and Tourism Foundation has initiated a project to introduce opera singer Gencer. In this context, a commemoration program will be held in the village of Yörük on May 10 to mark the 13th anniversary of Gencer's death.

The restoration work that started in the village house to keep Gencer's memories alive will be accelerated, and her belongings that have been kept in a warehouse in Istanbul will be shifted there, giving visitors an opportunity to visit the house and see Gencer's belongings closely.

Speaking to the state-run Anadolu Agency, Safranbolu Culture and Tourism Foundation President Şefik Dizdar said that as the foundation, they undertook a duty to highlight the cultural assets of Safranbolu.

Dizdar emphasized that organizing a memorial night for Gencer is their main duty, adding, "May 10 is the death anniversary of Gencer. That's why we will organize a memorial night here. We started working immediately."

Noting that Gencer was famous worldwide, Dizdar said, "We want to introduce our international artist and keep her name alive. With her memory, we will carry out works that will highlight the cultural heritage of Safranbolu."

Stating that these programs may turn into festivals in the coming years, Dizdar said that the foundation will organize all the events.

Emphasizing that they will first contact her...