Türkiye’s ‘Night Museum’ program draws record visitors in Antalya
Evening openings at historic sites prove popular as part of nationwide heritage initiative
ANTALYA, Türkiye (MNTV) — Antalya has recorded a 17% increase in museum and archaeological site visits this year, with officials crediting the rise to the city’s successful “Night Museum” initiative under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism’s “Legacy for the Future” project.
The program, launched to enhance the visitor experience at historic landmarks, combines archaeological restoration, environmental upgrades, expanded visitor routes, and modern lighting systems to make cultural attractions more accessible after sunset.
Sites such as Side, Aspendos, Patara, Alanya Castle, and the Alanya and Necropolis Museums have become evening destinations for both domestic and international tourists.
Provincial Culture and Tourism Director Candemir Zoroğlu said Antalya welcomed 1.3 million visitors to its museums and archaeological sites in the first half of 2025, compared to 1.1 million in the same period last year.
“The night openings are a major draw, offering cooler conditions and a unique atmosphere, while also benefiting local businesses,” he noted.
Antalya has received over nine million foreign tourists so far this year, many opting to explore historical sites in the evenings to avoid high daytime temperatures.
The model has now expanded to 27 cultural sites nationwide under the direction of Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy.
Officials emphasized that Antalya is positioning itself as a leading cultural tourism hub, moving beyond its traditional image as a sun-and-sea destination.
New infrastructure projects, including the planned Antalya–Alanya Highway, are expected to further strengthen the sector.
The Night Museum program in Antalya will continue until October 1.
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