A story that began with the donation of Cretan immigrant Nigar Balın is transforming into Bornova’s cultural memory

Bornova Municipality is restoring a registered historical building in Kazım Dirik Neighborhood, donated by Cretan immigrant Nigar Balın, and transforming it into the Crete Memorial House and Art Gallery. The project aims to preserve the building’s original texture while turning it into a cultural and event center that will keep Cretan heritage alive. Mayor Ömer Eşki emphasized that the restoration will add significant value to Bornova’s multicultural history.

Donated in 2020 by Nigar Balın, the historical structure located on 367/3 Street in Kazım Dirik Neighborhood is being carefully restored to serve as the Crete Memorial House and Art Gallery. The restoration projects prepared for the building, which has been officially registered by the Cultural Heritage Preservation Board, have been approved by relevant institutions. With this, Bornova is taking an important step toward preserving and celebrating its cultural heritage.

A Cultural Bridge from the Past to the Future

Covering an area of 250 square meters, the site includes one single-story and one two-story building, as well as an annex. Inside, visitors will find original objects, traditional clothing, photographs, and handicrafts reflecting Cretan culture. The venue will include exhibition halls, event spaces, and a café, offering visitors a unique cultural experience that brings the stories of Cretan families in İzmir to life.

At the Heart of Restoration: “A Space Where Memories Come Alive”

The project is being carried out in line with Bornova Municipality’s philosophy of cultural heritage conservation. Its goal is to preserve the building’s authentic stone architecture while blending the spirit of the past with the needs of the present.
Designed under the concept “A Space Where Memories Come Alive,” the project will feature a memorial house, café, conference area, exhibition hall, and a green garden—creating a multifunctional center that both honors history and hosts artistic events.

Mayor Eşki: “We Are Creating a Space that Keeps Bornova’s History Alive”

Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki met with donor Nigar Balın in front of the historical building and shared details about the project:

“We are in front of the Bornova Crete Memorial House. This place holds great significance for Bornova’s history and for the Cretan community here. We are launching the restoration process and aim to bring this space back to life for Bornova. I picked a beautiful pomegranate from its garden; I hope soon all Bornova residents will enjoy the beauty of this place.”

Mayor Eşki also underlined that this project is more than a restoration effort—it is a cultural initiative that will make Bornova’s multicultural identity visible once again.

The Spirit of Crete Will Live On in Bornova

Once completed, the Crete Memorial House will not only preserve the memories of Cretan families but also host art, culture, and educational events, turning Bornova into a hub of cultural attraction.
The project represents a model for heritage preservation, tourism development, and the revitalization of local identity by giving a historical structure a new cultural purpose.