District Governor's House (Kaymakam Evi)

A Building with Two Lives

One of the most striking Ottoman structures encountered while walking the stone streets of Amasra’s walled old town, the District Governor’s House actually began its life as a school.

Built in 1884 by the then Governor of Bolu, İsmail Kemal Bey, within the old town, the building initially served as an iptidai mektebi (primary school). Over the years its function changed and it was assigned to the district governorship, being adapted as the district governor’s residence.

Architectural Features

The building carries the characteristic features of late Ottoman public building architecture: stone walls, broad timber eave details and the symmetrical façade arrangement typical of the era’s official buildings. It is one of the best-preserved examples of civil architecture in the densely historical fabric of the old town.

A Stop on the Old Town Walk

The District Governor’s House is a natural part of the historical walking route of the old town, together with Amasra Castle and Fatih Mosque. The surrounding area is also an ideal spot for morning photography: a narrow stone lane, ivy-covered walls and the historic building all in one frame.

Distances

• Amasra Castle: 1 minute on foot
• Fatih Mosque: 2 minutes on foot
• Underground Galleries: 2 minutes on foot
• Kemere Bridge: 6 minutes on foot