Umran Baradan Museum of Toys and Games, Izmir

The Umran Baradan Museum of Toys and Games in İzmir is a delightful destination that invites visitors of all ages to take a nostalgic trip back to childhood. Established by the renowned ceramic artist Ümran Baradan, the museum opened its doors in 2005. To support the museum, Baradan generously donated a two-story house and her extensive collection of toys acquired from various countries.

The museum’s collection was later expanded with contributions from Sunay Akın, the founder of the İstanbul Toy Museum, who added an array of unique items. Since 2010, the museum has been under the management of the Konak Municipality, becoming a prominent cultural spot in the district.

Inside, the ground floor is dedicated to Ümran Baradan’s original donations, showcasing a wide array of toys, some dating back to the 1800s. Visitors will encounter the “first real-hair baby doll” and a vintage “Mickey Mouse” toy that predates the iconic cartoon character. Also featured is a “Laterna Magica,” an early form of projector and a precursor to cinema. The first floor is reserved for Sunay Akın’s contributions, further enriching the collection with dollhouses, toy cars, fairy tale characters, and other charming curiosities.

With more than a thousand toys on display, the museum hosts various educational activities and workshops throughout the year, including traditional Karagöz and Hacivat shadow play demonstrations. These programs aim to engage children and promote cultural heritage interactively and entertainingly.

Beyond its rich collection and engaging activities, the Umran Baradan Museum of Toys and Games stands as the first example of the boutique museology concept promoted by the Konak Municipality. The museum not only exhibits toys from different countries and eras but also includes works by talented children who have won awards in competitions organized by Ümran Baradan herself.

After exploring the museum, visitors can enjoy the serene view from its garden, making it a memorable experience that blends art, history, and play.