Zāwiya

Museum of Innocence Opens on April 28th in Istanbul

"It was the happiest moment of my life, though I did not know it." The novel's opening line
(Image: Duygu Atlas)

Turkish Nobel laureate Orhan Pamuk is finally launching his grand project, the Museum of Innocence, which is based on his best-selling 2008 book by the same title. The book tells the story of wealthy Kemal’s love for his distant cousin Füsun and his ensuing obsession over her once the love is lost, which is reflected in his assiduous collection of objects which remind him of her. The book became an instant hit not only as a result of Pamuk’s brilliant portrayal of the spirit of Istanbul at the time, but also because Kemal’s attachment to objects, a far too familiar condition for many, stroke a similar sentimental chord with many readers. The book has been translated into nearly 60 languages. 

The museum will open its doors to the public on April 28th offering visitors a unique opportunity to take a closer look at Turkish daily life of the 1950s through its collection of artifacts and ephemera at display, which draws on the story of Kemal and Füsun. 

It is not a must to read the book to enjoy what the museum has to offer, but it sure helps you get in without purchasing a ticket. The book includes a ticket which is supposed to be stamped at the entrance as well as a map of the Çukurcuma neighborhood, where the museum is situated in a 19th century building.

Visit the museum's website here.