Mehteran - Live Turkish Military Band Concert and Military Museum Guided Tour

• Wheelchair accessible for easy and comfortable access.
• Convenient public transportation options nearby for hassle-free travel.
• Infants are required to sit on your lap during the experience for safety.
• Infant seats are available upon request for added comfort and convenience.

Your guide will meet you at the entrance of the Military Museum of Turkey, holding a sign that says 'Mehteran – Live Turkish Military Band Performance and Military Museum Guided Tour.' After entering, your guide, an expert in Ottoman Military History, will show you around the museum and explain its key exhibits. After the tour, you’ll have free time before heading to the hall to watch the Mehteran performance – the world’s oldest military band – for the next 45 minutes.

What is Mehter? Turkey has had a military music tradition for over 1200 years. The first records of a Turkish military band were found in Old Turkish script in the Orkhun Valley, dating back to the 8th century. The band that plays this music is called 'Mehteran,' and the music itself is called 'Mehter Music.' The founder of Mehteran was Osman Gazi, the founder of the Ottoman Empire. When Osman Gazi received 'The Independence Warrant' from the Seljuks, he was given a pole with horse tail hairs and a drum, both used in the band, symbolizing sovereignty. Since then, Mehteran has always led the Ottoman Army, boosting morale on the battlefield. Today, Mehteran represents the Ottoman Army and its victories.