Sheikh Hamdullah Calligraphy History and Fine Arts Museum is located in a restored historical mansion in Hatuniye District, Amasya, and is the first museum in the world established in the name of a calligrapher. It exhibits the evolution of writing from Sumer to the present day, Ottoman calligraphy, and traditional arts like marbling and illumination; it has a paid entrance and MuseumCard is not valid.
The museum takes its name from Sheikh Hamdullah, who is believed to have been born in Amasya and established his own school in Ottoman calligraphy. Hamdullah mastered six fundamental script types (aklâm-ı sitte), tutored Prince Bayezid, and settled in Istanbul with his family when Bayezid became sultan. The museum, brought to life by Amasya Municipality, opened to visitors in 2018; it is known as the first example of its kind in Turkey.
Located in a three-story traditional Amasya house in Hatuniye District, two floors of the museum are open for visits. On the first floor, works and calligraphy materials of calligraphers who lived in Amasya are exhibited along with their names. The second floor is dedicated directly to Sheikh Hamdullah. The exhibition area also explains the development of Sumerian, Egyptian, and Hittite writing systems, as well as the production stages of traditional arts such as marbling (ebru), illumination (tezhip), and bookbinding.
Visitor comments frequently emphasize that it is a fulfilling place for those interested in calligraphy, and some speak positively about the helpfulness of the staff. However, some visitors state that the exhibited works are not originals but replicas. It is useful to adjust your expectations accordingly.
Related discoveries: Historical Places, Amasya historical places, Historical Ferhat Water Canal.
Guide's Note
Sheikh Hamdullah Calligraphy History and Fine Arts Museum is a remarkable stop for those interested in calligraphy and the history of writing culture. Visitors generally welcome the works in the collection and the museum's thematic structure focused on this field. The helpful and attentive attitude of the staff is also among the factors contributing to the positive visitor experience.
However, there are some practical points you should consider before visiting the museum. Since comments are limited, it is difficult to draw a definitive general conclusion; however, the following issues have been raised or noted by multiple visitors.
- Authenticity of works: At least one visitor stated that a large portion of the exhibited works are replicas, expressing that this did not meet their expectations. If seeing original works is your priority, it may be beneficial to contact the museum before your visit.
- Entrance fee: The ticket price is stated as 80 TL; there is no free or discounted entry with a MuseumCard.
- MuseumCard not valid: Visitors using a MuseumCard cannot benefit from its advantages, so it is recommended to plan your payment accordingly.
In Whose Memory Was the Museum Established?
Sheikh Hamdullah is a calligrapher believed to have been born in Amasya between 1426-1436. He received religious education from Hatip Kasım Efendi and calligraphy training from Yahya Çelebi-zâde Ali Çelebi and Hayrettin Halil Çelebi. Hamdullah, who masterfully wrote six types of script (aklâm-ı sitte) including Tevkî', rikā', muhakkak, reyhânî, sülüs, and nesih, received his ijazah (license) from Hayreddin Maraşî, a calligrapher of the period. Hamdullah, who established his own school in Ottoman calligraphy, taught calligraphy to Prince Bayezid, who was serving in the Amasya Sanjak. When Bayezid became sultan, Hamdullah settled in Istanbul with his family. He also prepared works for Fatih's private library, some of which have survived to the present day.
When to Visit?
As it is an indoor museum, the season does not matter. It is suitable for those who want to escape the summer heat or seek an alternative to outdoor excursions on winter days. When visiting Amasya, it can be combined with the Yalıboyu Houses and the castle exit on the same day, as the visit duration is short.
How to Get There?
The museum is located on Bülbül Hatun Street in Hatuniye District. It is within walking distance from Amasya Central bus station or the city center, and can be reached by taxi in 5-10 minutes. Since Amasya is a small city, it can be explored without needing to rent a car.
How Much Time Should Be Allocated?
30-45 minutes is sufficient for the two-story exhibition area. In comments, some visitors say 'it's only calligraphy, for those interested.' If you don't have a special interest in fine calligraphy, it might be more logical to allocate more time to other stops in Amasya (castle, Yalıboyu Houses, royal rock tombs).
Things to Know Before You Go
The Museum Card is not valid at this museum; you need to pay separately at the entrance. Some visitor comments state that the exhibited works are not originals, but replicas or imitations. This might be a disappointment for those expecting to see original manuscripts by a great calligrapher. On the other hand, there are also comments stating that the staff are helpful and attentive. Adjust your expectations accordingly.
For Photography
The three-story traditional Amasya house housing the museum itself holds photographic value; its wooden bay windows and interior details are striking. The section on the second floor dedicated to Sheikh Hamdullah is a corner rich with calligraphy panels.
Other Stops Nearby
Hatuniye District, where the museum is located, is an area with a rich historical texture in Amasya. Places like Küçükaga Restaurant and Keyif Cafe & Restaurant are within walking distance of the museum. It's easy to combine a museum visit with a meal.
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