Bee Writer by ITU Writing Center November, 2014 | Page 6

Atatürk Arboretum
Hidden Paradise of Istanbul
Ataturk’s Arboretum is a living plant
museum on 296 hectares of forest area in
the southeast area of Belgrade Woods,
attracting the attention of many local and
international botanists. It was created for
scientific research and observation of
trees mainly and other woody plants
which are cultivated and displayed in
Sarıyer.
The founder of the Arboretum is Professor
Dr. Hayrettin Kayacık from the Istanbul
University Faculty of Forestry. He started
the first plantings upon the approval of
the General Directorate of Forestry in
1949.
You have probably heard about Belgrade
Woods in some way or another even if you
have never been to Istanbul. However,
Ataturk’s Arboretum is a hidden paradise
known by just a few people. If you want to
spend some quality time with nature far
from picnic areas and crowded beaches,
this Eighth Wonder of Istanbul is the right
place for you.

We were welcomed by a cute dog,
apparently our escort, and started our trip
after paying a small amount of money at
the entrance. We walked down the path
until the crossroads and turned left. There
was a pond with ducks quacking, probably
saying welcome, and they were really into
posing for photo shoots. We saw all sorts
of trees including quite rare ones tolerant
to Istanbul’s climate. This huge variety was
beyond comprehension.

Take the subway to Hacıosman, and then
transfer to the 42HM bus to Kemerburgaz
Road. The people using this bus line are
the nicest for some reason, and it is quite
difficult to explain what an arboretum is to
the bus drivers. It takes just a five to ten
minute walk to get to the Arboretum. We
felt like rejoicing about our escape from
the depressive atmosphere of Istanbul just
by walking on the pathway to the
museum.

Dog walking, picnicking and making fires
are strictly forbidden; therefore, there is
no place selling food or beverages. Visitors
better bring their own snacks and water.
Otherwise, they will starve by the end of
their trip. There is an emergency water
fountain though.

beewriter
ITU Writing Center Student Magazine

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