The Tekirdağ Government Mansion is a historical administrative building constructed between 1912 and 1913 by Ottoman Mutasarrıf (Governor) Hüsnü Bey from Thessaloniki. It was expanded during the Republican period and is currently used as the Tekirdağ Governorship.
Government Mansion in Evening Light
History
The Tekirdağ Government Mansion was built during the late Ottoman period and the early years of the Republic, serving as the administrative center of the city. The front section of the building was constructed in 1912-1913 (Hijri 1328) by the then-Mutasarrıf Hüsnü Bey from Thessaloniki. This structure is among the public buildings built in the last period of the Ottoman Empire and reflects the architectural features of classical Ottoman administrative buildings.
In 1934, then-Governor Haşim İşcan expanded the structure by adding a concrete garden and additional sections to the front of the building. In 1946, Governor Ferit Nomer developed the backyard and constructed a three-story annex in the rear section, giving the building its current form.
Architectural Features
The Tekirdağ Government Mansion brings together architectural elements from both the late Ottoman and early Republican periods. The building, classified as a First Group Monumental Structure, reflects the architectural style of classical Ottoman administrative buildings and early Republican public structures.
The exterior façade features Kütahya tiles and stone decorations. The stone craftsmanship used on the façade reflects the artistic understanding of the period, and the entrance section carries a monumental character. The total area of the building is 9,254.88 square meters, and it is located in Ortacami Neighborhood, Hükümet Street.
Cultural and Historical Significance
The Tekirdağ Government Mansion is not just an administrative structure but also an important symbol that has witnessed the early years of the Republic of Turkey. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, during his second visit to Tekirdağ on August 23, 1928, introduced the new Turkish alphabet to the public in this Government Mansion. This event highlights that the building was not only a center of governance but also played a role in the cultural transformation of the Republic.
Restoration Works
As a historical structure, the Tekirdağ Government Mansion has been subject to several restoration projects over time. On March 26, 2015, the Edirne Regional Directorate for the Protection of Cultural Assets approved survey, restitution, and restoration projects. On October 18, 2018, a restoration tender was held, and on November 19, 2018, a contract was signed with the contractor company to initiate the restoration process.
The primary goal of this restoration was to repair damages that had occurred over time and to preserve the original architectural texture of the building for future generations.
Current Status
Today, the Tekirdağ Government Mansion continues to serve as the Tekirdağ Governorship. After the completion of restoration works, the building has maintained its administrative function while also standing as a cultural and historical landmark. Due to its historical significance, it is also a point of interest for visitors to Tekirdağ.
