Film site for Ottoman era TV productions

MUĞLA - Anadolu Agency

A number of historical structures are being restored for film productions. AA photo

Cultural authorities in the southwestern province of Muğla are moving to restore a number of historical structures, including mosques, inns and bridges, in the Yatağan district after the sites began drawing the attention of film and TV producers.

“Lots of examples of civilian architecture are being kept alive in our district. So far, certain structures have been restored in the area, but now 13 more structures will be restored, too. This area will be a complete area for filming,” said Yaşar Gencel, the mayor of the town of Bozüyük, in which the sites are located.

Local and foreign tourists from places like Belgium, Norway, France and the United Kingdom, who have learned about the district on television thanks to films and series, are coming in increasing numbers to the area to snap photos. 

Gencel said the district was a natural place for filming due to its Ottoman buildings, which were built by Süleyman the Magnificent ahead of his campaign to conquer Rhodes. 

“An Ottoman district, Bozüyük sheds light on history with its well-preserved texture,” he said, calling the restoration efforts a “street reinforcement” project.

About 40 percent of the site is an urban archaeological site, the mayor said, noting that a number of locals were also taking part in productions.