Turkish museums host nearly 9 mln visitors in 2020 despite virus

More than 8.91 million people visited Turkish museums and archaeological sites in 2020, despite the negative effects of the coronavirus outbreak.

The sites have an important role in the context of protecting cultural heritage, transferring it to future generations and generating a collective memory.

A total of 204 museums, 142 archaeological sites and 296 private museums hosted history aficionados under the auspices of Turkey's Ministry of Culture and Tourism, which provided the data.

The number of museums increased daily and more than 3.25 million historical artifacts are being exhibited in 204 museums.

An average of 40,000 artifacts have been added to the collections of museums each year; furthermore, 11,632 movable cultural assets were put into conservation.

To prepare museums for the 2021 tourism season, serve local and international tourists in a better fashion in line with contemporary museum understanding, relevant authorities have conducted a variety of maintenance activities such as renovations, landscaping, labeling and exhibition arrangements.

As part of efforts to increase the number of museums in Turkey, 161 museums were renovated between 2002-2020 and 43 with international recognition were opened.

In addition, 16 newly built museums - including in Adana, Uşak, Kayseri, Mersin and Van provinces - now welcome visitors.

Outbreak not slowing museum inauguration

Turkey hosts several private museums operating in archaeology, ethnography, and fine arts, and more and more have been opened in recent years. There are 296 private museums as of April 2021 and collectors' museums stand at 1,586.

Although the coronavirus pandemic has led to troubles around the world, 26...