Treasures of Çankaya

Trasures of Çankaya presents the richness of Turkey’s Presidential Collection in images and text for the first time. This book displays pieces from the impressive collection of artifacts furnishing the Presidential Palace of Çankaya, and includes archival material and photographs of the palace’s interior. This record offers an overview of this extensive collection, with a focus on each precious piece, its artistic finesse, and its intriguing background. The cultural wealth of the collection provides a unique view into the history of the Turkish Presidency, and of the Republic of Turkey This volume comes after a tremendous restoration effort under the Abdullah Gül Presidency. Under the supervision of First Lady Hayrunnisa Gül professionals began extensive inventory, restoration, and conservation in the Presidential Collection, addressing every item in Çankaya’s stores of porcelain, ceramics, glass, metals, carpets, and furniture. They removed from these precious objects the abrasive effects of time, and meticulously restored then to their former glory. Each object has returned to its original use or entered protective storage.