Cerrahi El Aletleri ve Sağlık Müzesi

The first of its kind in Turkey, this museum is a unique space dedicated to the history of medicine and the evolution of surgical skill. Located in the city of Samsun, it occupies a carefully restored historic building of a former railway workshop built in 1926.

Museum of Surgical Instruments and Health. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The Museum of Surgical Instruments and Medicine is not just an exhibition of objects, but a complete chronicle of healthcare development. Approximately 280 types of instruments are gathered here under one roof, ranging from antique dental forceps to modern prostheses produced by local craftsmen. The building itself is an architectural monument, whose brick walls highlight the technological nature of the exhibits.

The collection clearly demonstrates why this region is considered the center of the country's medical industry. Visitors can expect rare artifacts, including medical equipment from the War of Independence and tools used by surgeons over a century ago.

If you are planning a visit to this unique museum in Samsun (Turkey), we recommend saving the contact information for communication or navigation in advance.

In the museum's halls, guests can embark on a fascinating exploration of medical innovations. The exhibition is divided into thematic zones where you can see everything from massive dental chairs of the last century to the finest instruments for ENT surgeries. It is interesting to compare how materials have changed—from clay and wood to high-quality stainless steel.

Be sure to pay attention to the following sections:

• General Surgery Zone: antique autoclaves and cutting tools from the early 20th century.
• Historical Rarities: medical bags and field doctor kits from periods of significant national history.
• Orthopedic Department: 150-year-old wheelchairs and early models of prosthetics.

In addition to viewing the displays, visitors can explore interactive panels that tell the story of local companies' contributions to modern medicine. This place is ideal for students, families with school-aged children, and anyone who appreciates the history of science and technology.

The museum is located in the İlkadım district of Samsun, within walking distance of the exhibition area (Fuar Alanı). You can reach the site from central districts via public transport—buses or "dolmuş" (shared minibuses) heading towards the İlkadım district. A taxi ride from Cumhuriyet Square will take only about 10–15 minutes.

For travelers arriving from other regions via Samsun-Çarşamba Airport (SZF), it is most convenient to use a transfer or taxi; the journey is approximately 30–40 kilometers. If you are at the main bus station (Samsun Otogar), take city buses that pass through the center toward the coast.

The history of this site began long before medical instruments filled its halls. The building was erected in 1926 and originally served as a locomotive repair workshop for the Turkish State Railways (TCDD) on the Samsun—Sivas line. This structure is a rare and valuable example of industrial architecture from the early Republican period in Turkey.

After decades of neglect, an ambitious restoration project was launched in 2016. Through the joint efforts of local authorities and the MEDİKÜM medical association, the abandoned depot was transformed into a modern museum space. The official opening took place in December 2021, making it the country's first specialized center for surgical instruments.

The choice of city for such a museum is no coincidence: Samsun has been the heart of Turkish medical equipment production for over 50 years. The exhibition was created not only for tourists but also to support the education of medical students, documenting the journey from artisanal products to modern high-tech tools.

For a standard tour of all the thematic halls and an introduction to the main exhibits, most visitors need between 1 and 2 hours. This time is sufficient to leisurely explore the collection and read the information stands.

If you have a professional interest in medicine or the history of science, plan for a bit more time. The abundance of small details and rare instruments from the beginning of the last century can hold your attention for a long time.

The museum usually welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday. Operating hours: 09:00 to 17:00. The museum is closed on Mondays.

As operating hours may change on public holidays or during special events, it is recommended to check for current information on the official website before your visit.

After visiting the museum, it is worth taking a stroll through the surrounding area. Its location in the İlkadım district allows for easy access to the waterfront and other iconic city landmarks, making your day as fulfilling as possible.