Audio GuideSalt Galata

Step into SALT Galata and you step into the living history of Istanbul. This stunning structure, now a cutting-edge cultural center, was once the beating heart of the Ottoman Bank. Built in the late nineteenth century by Alexander Vallaury, one of Istanbul’s most influential architects, its stone facade glows with old-world grandeur. High ceilings stretch above your head while marble staircases curve beside intricate, time-worn ornaments. All of these features are preserved from its days as a symbol of the city’s financial power.

Abdullah Öğük

Inside, sunlight pours through tall windows and illuminates displays that tell the story of the Ottoman Bank’s role in Turkey’s transformation. The museum houses rare photographs, personal files, banking artifacts, and even vaults that once protected fortunes. One moment stands out in its history. That is the bank takeover of the year eighteen ninety-six, when a group held staff and customers hostage. They hoped to draw international attention to violence against Armenians. This dramatic day links the building not just to finance, but also to the broader currents of change and turmoil in Turkish history.

Ceren COŞAR

Today, SALT Galata is much more than a museum. It thrives as a hub for art, research, and discovery. Wander through diverse exhibitions—some rooted in Istanbul’s past, others bursting with contemporary energy. Or relax in one of the lively cafés. Researchers and creatives gather in the open-work spaces and the renowned library. This library offers free Wi-Fi and a trove of resources spanning Turkey and nearby regions.

Located just minutes from the famous Galata Tower on Bankalar Street, SALT Galata’s grand halls now host talks, workshops, and artistic experiments. This space blends echoes of the past with new visions. SALT’s commitment to accessible culture and innovation has made this space a beloved part of Istanbul’s vibrant cultural scene, standing alongside—and sometimes beyond—the city’s other modern galleries. Whether you seek inspiration, relaxation, or connection to Istanbul’s layered story, SALT Galata is a place to discover it all.