SALT Galata
A free contemporary art institution in the old Ottoman Bank building, with rotating exhibitions, talks, and a public archive.
SALT Galata is the Istanbul branch of SALT, a non-profit cultural institution founded in 2011 by Vasıf Kortun and Garanti Bank. It occupies the former headquarters of the Ottoman Bank on Bankalar Caddesi, bringing together a programme of contemporary art, architecture, and design exhibitions alongside the publicly accessible Ottoman Bank Archives and Research Centre. The space also hosts regular talks, screenings, and workshops. SALT is a member of L'Internationale, a confederation of European art museums, and has a second venue in Ankara.
“Striking historical setting, well-curated free exhibitions, and a calm atmosphere right in the middle of Karaköy.”
The basement bank vault now houses a public library and archive – most visitors walk right past the staircase leading down to it.
Good to know
- Is SALT Galata free to visit?
- Free
- How long should you spend at SALT Galata?
- ~1h
- When is the best time to visit SALT Galata?
- Afternoon
