The Atatürk Cultural Center (Atatürk Kültür Merkezi), also known as AKM

History and Significance:

 

The opera house, designed by architects Feridun Kip and Rükneddin Güney, and whose construction began on May 29, 1946, could not be completed due to insufficient funds. Consequently, it was transferred to the Ministry of Public Works in 1953, and construction resumed in 1956 under the guidance of Master Architect Hayati Tabanlıoğlu. It was officially inaugurated on April 12, 1969, serving as a venue for performances by the State Opera and Ballet as well as the State Theatres.

​

Fire:

​

After a fire incident on November 27, 1970, which occurred during a performance of Arthur Miller's "The Crucible," the structure underwent repairs and was reopened on October 6, 1978, with the new name Atatürk Cultural Centre. The building, which reached its final design under the supervision of Associate Professor Dr. Master Architect Hayati Tabanlıoğlu, is considered a prime illustration of the straightforward and practical architectural approach prevalent in the 1950s. The AKM has emerged as Turkey's foremost venue for performing arts, particularly due to the expansive stage of its Grand Hall, featuring advanced mechanical capabilities and various elevators tailored for diverse purposes.

​

Cultural Activities:

 

The Atatürk Cultural Center played a pivotal role in hosting a wide range of artistic and cultural events, including theater performances, concerts, ballet and opera productions, film screenings, exhibitions, and conferences. Its theaters and concert halls were venues for both local and international artists to showcase their talents.

​

Renovation and Controversy:

 

Having remained in service until the 2000s, the building faced various operational challenges, prompting authorities to seek a solution. In November 2008, a protocol was established between the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Subsequently, Tabanlıoğlu Architecture was entrusted with the renovation project for the Atatürk Cultural Centre, a responsibility assumed by the Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture Agency. In 2012, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism initiated the preservation, repair, and renovation efforts for the building while maintaining its original structure. However, the restoration process revealed that the extent of damage within the building surpassed initial expectations.

​

Closure and Reconstruction:

 

The Atatürk Cultural Center was closed for extensive renovation and reconstruction. The project aimed to modernise the centre's facilities while preserving its cultural value. The new design was intended to integrate modern technology and infrastructure while respecting the architectural legacy of the original structure.

​

Reopening:

 

The Atatürk Cultural Center, inaugurated with a grand opening ceremony on October 29, 2021, encompasses the following units: a 2040-seat Opera Hall, a 781-seat Theatre Hall, the AKM Gallery, the AKM Multipurpose Hall, the AKM Children’s Art Center, the AKM Music Platform, the AKM Music Recording Studio, a specialised AKM Library with a primary focus on architecture and design, AKM Yeşilçam Cinema, and the AKM Design Shop.

​