Ulucanlar Prison Museum

Ulucanlar Prison Museum: A Journey Through Turkey's Political and Cultural Past

Nestled in the heart of Ankara's Altındağ district, the Ulucanlar Prison Museum stands as a poignant testament to Turkey's complex political history and evolving societal narratives. Originally established in 1925, this former prison has been meticulously transformed into a museum that offers visitors an immersive experience into the lives of its past inmates and the broader socio-political landscape of the nation.

A Historical Overview

Ulucanlar Prison began its operation in 1925, shortly after Ankara was designated the capital of the newly founded Republic of Turkey. Over its 81 years of operation, the prison bore witness to significant events in Turkish history, housing a diverse array of inmates, from political dissidents and intellectuals to common criminals. Notably, it was the site of numerous executions, including those of prominent figures such as Deniz Gezmiş, Yusuf Aslan, and Hüseyin İnan in 1972, and Erdal Eren in 1980 .

The prison's history is also marked by episodes of unrest, including a series of riots in 1999, during which ten inmates lost their lives, and many others were injured . These events underscore the prison's role not just as a detention center but as a microcosm of the broader political tensions within Turkey.

Transformation into a Museum

Following its closure in 2006, there was considerable debate regarding the future of the Ulucanlar Prison site. While some proposed commercial redevelopment, civil society organizations and cultural advocates pushed for its preservation as a site of memory. Ultimately, the Altındağ Municipality undertook a comprehensive restoration project, and in 2011, the Ulucanlar Prison Museum was inaugurated .

The restoration aimed to retain the prison's original architecture and atmosphere, preserving its austere corridors, cells, and communal areas. However, some critics argue that the transformation has sanitized certain aspects of the prison's grim past, potentially diluting the narratives of suffering and resistance that characterized its history .

Exhibits and Visitor Experience

The museum offers a multifaceted experience, combining historical artifacts with immersive exhibits:

• Hilton Wards: Named ironically for their relative comfort, these wards housed notable political figures like Bülent Ecevit and Osman Bölükbaşı. Visitors can view their personal belongings and read biographical information displayed on bunk beds .
• Isolation Cells: These solitary confinement cells are preserved to reflect the harsh conditions endured by inmates. Sound effects simulate the environment, with echoes of guards' commands and prisoners' laments enhancing the immersive experience .
• Wax Figures and Personal Artifacts: Throughout the museum, wax sculptures depict daily prison life, while displays showcase personal items of former inmates, including watches, cigarettes, and letters, providing intimate glimpses into their lives . Execution Yard: The original gallows remain in the courtyard, accompanied by a memorial tree adorned with photographs of executed prisoners, serving as a somber reminder of the prison's past .

Additionally, visitors seeking a deeper understanding can opt for a unique experience: being briefly confined in a reconstructed isolation cell, simulating the conditions once faced by inmates .

Cultural Significance and Critiques

Ulucanlar Prison Museum holds a unique position in Turkey's cultural landscape, being the first of its kind in the country. It serves not only as a historical site but also as a space for reflection on issues of justice, human rights, and political expression.

However, the museum has faced criticism for its portrayal of history. Some argue that it fails to adequately represent the experiences of certain groups, such as female inmates and Kurdish political prisoners, thereby presenting an incomplete narrative . Others contend that the museum's focus on notable figures may overshadow the stories of countless unnamed individuals who suffered within its walls.

Visiting Information

• Location: Hacettepe, Ulucanlar Cd. No:63, 06030 Altındağ/Ankara, Turkey Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; closed on Mondays .Admission: Standard entry is 5 TRY; discounted rates are available for students and seniors .
• Accessibility: The museum is accessible via public transportation, with nearby bus and metro stations providing convenient access .

Conclusion

The Ulucanlar Prison Museum stands as a powerful symbol of Turkey's turbulent journey through political upheavals and societal transformations. While it offers valuable insights into the nation's history, it also prompts critical reflection on the narratives we choose to preserve and those we overlook. For visitors to Ankara, the museum provides a compelling, albeit sobering, exploration of the enduring human spirit amidst adversity.