The Gazi Alemdar Ship Museum in Kdz. Ereğli harbor is a replica, rebuilt in 2008, of the ship that witnessed the only naval battle of the 1921 War of Independence; it can be visited for free in 20-30 minutes, featuring naval equipment and period documents.
Alemdar was originally a small ship built in Copenhagen shipyards in 1898. During World War I, it was confiscated by the Ottoman Government and its name was changed. Its real story begins in 1920: the ship, smuggled from Istanbul under occupation conditions, was brought to Kdz. Ereğli and not handed over to the French. The conflict on June 18, 1921, went down in history as the only naval battle of the War of Independence. The subsequent agreement was also considered Turkey's first international agreement during the war.
The original ship was scrapped in 1982. The structure you see on the coast today is a replica rebuilt to original dimensions in four Ereğli shipyards with 164 tons of ship plate donated by Erdemir. It has been serving as a museum since 2008. The storage section has been converted into an exhibition area, and a separate section into a 100-person meeting hall. A short film about the War of Independence period is shown here; visitors recommend not missing this screening.
The exhibition area features period materials such as navy uniforms, compass, steering wheel, engine telegraph, as well as photographs and documents. Visitors find the museum well-organized and clean, noting that the audio information system is effective. The visit duration is kept short, approximately 20 minutes. Therefore, it can be considered a stop to visit while out for a coastal walk.
Related discoveries: Places to visit in Zonguldak, Historical Places, Historical places in Zonguldak, Filyos Tios Ancient City.
Guide's Note
Best Time to Visit
The museum is open every day of the week except Monday, so there's no problem for those visiting on weekdays. Since it's on the coastal strip, it makes sense to combine the visit with a seaside walk in spring and summer. Some comments mention people going on Monday and finding it closed, so don't overlook this detail.
How to Get There
The museum is located on the coastal strip within Kdz. Ereğli harbor. It's within walking distance from the city center; for those coming by car, there is paid parking available on the roadside. From Zonguldak city center to Ereğli, it's approximately a 40-50 minute journey by bus or private car.
How Much Time to Allocate
20-30 minutes is sufficient for the exhibition area inside the ship and the film screening. It's not a large museum; consider it a short stop that can be squeezed into a coastal tour.
How to Add to Your Itinerary
It's a natural stop for those walking along the Ereğli coast. On the same day, a one-day trip itinerary can be created by combining it with other historical sites in Ereğli center or attractions in Zonguldak such as the Mining Museum or Gökgöl Cave.
Good Spots for Photos
The exterior of the ship visible from the coast and the deck area are suitable for photography. The harbor and sea view behind the ship offer good shots, especially near sunset.
Things to Pay Attention To
It should not be forgotten that it is closed on Mondays. Some visitors mention that the nearby toilet is paid and its cleanliness is insufficient, so you can plan accordingly. Since parking is paid, it's useful to have cash.
Things to Know About the Museum
Today's ship is a replica of the original Alemdar, rebuilt in 2008. The original was scrapped in 1982; it was rebuilt to the same dimensions in four Ereğli shipyards with ship plate donated by Erdemir. The exhibition area features period materials such as navy uniforms, compass, and steering wheel, as well as photographs from the War of Independence period. Additionally, a short film about the War of Independence is shown in a 100-person hall.
Gazi Alemdar Ship Museum Videos
Gazi Alemdar Ship Museum videos load when you open this section to keep the page fast.
Show videos
FAQ
Updated:
