Cunda Taş Mektep Old Greek School
A former Greek church on Cunda Island, now a museum showcasing global engineering marvels and architectural restoration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Cunda Taş Mektep Old Greek School
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A former Greek church on Cunda Island, now a museum showcasing global engineering marvels and architectural restoration.
"A fascinating blend of history and engineering, this restored Greek church is a must-visit on Cunda Island."
🎟️ Entry Fees Vary
Be aware of different pricing for Turkish citizens and foreigners. Museum Card not accepted.
🏛️ Admire the Architecture
The building itself, a former Greek church, is a major highlight. Don't miss the restoration details.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Old Greek Church
The Museum Building
Explore a beautifully restored 1873 Greek church, a testament to rapid restoration and original artistry.
Global Engineering Collection
Exhibition Halls
Marvel at a diverse array of antique motorcycles, cars, ships, and engineering models from around the world.
Architectural Details
Building Facade and Interiors
Admire the use of local Sarımsak stone on doors and window frames, adding to the building's historic charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Unique Blend of History and Engineering
Navigating Entry and Pricing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Entry Fees Vary
Be aware of different pricing for Turkish citizens and foreigners. Museum Card not accepted.
🏛️ Admire the Architecture
The building itself, a former Greek church, is a major highlight. Don't miss the restoration details.
🚗 Explore Nearby
Old windmill, restaurants, and pubs are close by for a complete day out.
✨ Well-Managed Space
The museum is noted for its cleanliness and excellent management.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Entry Fees Vary
Be aware of different pricing for Turkish citizens and foreigners. Museum Card not accepted.
🏛️ Admire the Architecture
The building itself, a former Greek church, is a major highlight. Don't miss the restoration details.
🚗 Explore Nearby
Old windmill, restaurants, and pubs are close by for a complete day out.
✨ Well-Managed Space
The museum is noted for its cleanliness and excellent management.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the unique transformation of an old Greek church into a museum, praising its clean environment and well-managed exhibits. The collection of global engineering marvels, from antique vehicles to intricate models, is a major draw. While the separate pricing for locals and foreigners is noted, the overall experience is highly recommended for its historical and engineering insights.
"It is definitely worth visiting if you are in the area, me and husband were amazed by the beautiful collection of motorcyles, bikes, cars and many more engineering items from all around the world. It is very fascinating to see the evolution of engineering over the years. Turkish citizens cannot use their muze kart however he cost of entry is 150TL."
Sevilay Isik
"Museum made in an old Greek church.
I find it just to be a composure of random objects most of which were nothing special. There were a few cool stuff but most of them were just small replicas.
It was not nice that there was two different prices for Turks and for foreigners, as you can see in one of the attached photos"
Rosen Kaymakchiev
"For me, the most interesting part of this museum is the building itself which used to be The Metropolitan Church dedicated to Taxiarches in 1873. The entire restoration with steel construction elements was surprisingly completed in 22 months, such a short period. And the decorations & paintings were renovated to its original form. It’s also nice to see local Sarımsak stone at its doors and window frames.
Other than the building, you get the chance to see a lot of toy models from ships to motors in the exhibition.
*Museum card is not valid."
Rümeysa İhvan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The school is located on Cunda Island (Alibey Island) in Ayvalık, Turkey. You can reach Ayvalık by bus from major Turkish cities. From Ayvalık, you can take a taxi or a local dolmuş (minibus) to Cunda Island. Once on the island, the school is a prominent landmark and easily accessible on foot.
Parking on Cunda Island can be challenging, especially during peak season. It's advisable to park in designated areas in Ayvalık or on the outskirts of Cunda Island and walk or take a short taxi ride to the school.
Walking is the best way to explore Cunda Island and its charming streets. The Old Greek School is centrally located, making it easy to combine with visits to other attractions. Consider renting a bicycle for a more leisurely exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Generally, museums in Turkey operate during daylight hours.
There is an admission fee for the museum. Prices differ for Turkish citizens and foreign visitors. The Museum Card is not accepted here.
No, the Museum Card is not valid for entry into the Cunda Taş Mektep Old Greek School museum. You will need to purchase a separate ticket.
Advance ticket booking is typically not required for this museum. Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance. However, during peak tourist seasons, arriving earlier might be beneficial.
Discounts may be available for students, children, or seniors, but this can vary. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter upon arrival or check their official information channels.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features a diverse collection of engineering items, including antique motorcycles, cars, ship models, and other mechanical marvels from around the world.
Yes, the collection of vehicles and models can be very engaging for children. The historical building itself also offers an interesting backdrop for exploration.
A visit can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and the size of the collection. You might spend longer if you wish to fully appreciate the architectural details of the building.
While the main exhibition areas are generally accessible, older buildings can sometimes have limitations. It's advisable to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility information regarding ramps or elevators.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the exhibits. It's always a good idea to check for any posted signs or ask staff for clarification.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within the museum itself. However, Cunda Island is known for its charming restaurants and cafes, many of which are located nearby.
You'll find a variety of dining options, from traditional Turkish cuisine and fresh seafood to local mezes and international dishes. Many restaurants offer beautiful sea views.
Yes, numerous cafes are scattered throughout Cunda Island, perfect for a coffee break or a light snack while exploring the area.
Popular choices often include restaurants along the waterfront serving fresh fish. Exploring the side streets can also lead to hidden gems offering authentic local flavors.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the beautifully restored church, with its unique architectural details and local stone accents, makes for stunning photographs. Inside, the collection of vintage vehicles and models offers many interesting angles.
Yes, the diverse range of vehicles and models provides ample opportunities for creative photography. Try capturing the scale of the larger items or the intricate details of the smaller models.
While personal photography is usually permitted, flash photography may be prohibited to preserve the exhibits. Always look for signage or ask museum staff if unsure.
Morning light can be softer and less harsh, making it ideal for capturing the architectural details of the building. Late afternoon light can also create a warm glow.
Absolutely! Cunda Island itself is very picturesque, with its cobblestone streets, historic houses, and waterfront. The area around the school offers many charming photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the exhibits, the building itself, a former church, adds an element of historical intrigue. It’s a chance for children to see how old structures can be repurposed. The museum is noted for being clean and well-managed, making for a comfortable visit. Plus, its location on Cunda Island means you can easily combine your museum trip with exploring charming streets and enjoying local eateries nearby.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
The museum's collection of engineering artifacts, while diverse, also tells a story of human ingenuity and progress. The juxtaposition of historical architecture with exhibits on technological evolution creates a unique cultural experience. It’s a place where you can delve into both the architectural past and the engineering future.
🚗 Car & Motorcycle Enthusiasts
Beyond cars and bikes, the broader collection of engineering items, including ship models, adds another layer of interest for mechanical enthusiasts. The well-managed and clean environment ensures a pleasant viewing experience. Remember that the Museum Card is not valid, so be prepared for the admission fee.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Transformation
The restoration focused on bringing the building back to its former glory while making it suitable for its new purpose as a museum. Original decorations and paintings were meticulously renovated, preserving the artistic heritage of the church. A key feature of the restoration is the prominent use of local Sarımsak stone for its doors and window frames, a material that adds a distinct regional character and historical authenticity to the building. This thoughtful approach ensures that the building's past is honored while its future is secured.
A Journey Through Engineering History
Beyond the larger vehicles, the museum also showcases a variety of toy models and engineering items, offering a broader perspective on mechanical innovation. The exhibition is designed to be fascinating for all ages, sparking curiosity about how things work and how they have changed. It’s a place where the past of engineering is brought to life, making it an engaging experience for enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
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