A 17th-century bronze cannon and 11 cannonballs found in İzmir are now on display after preservation efforts, highlighting cultural cooperation.
A bronze ship cannon and 11 cannonballs, determined to have been made in the first half of the 17th century in the Netherlands, have begun to be exhibited from a ship that arrived in İzmir for dismantling.
During the dismantling of a ship brought to the city in 2025, a ship cannon and cannonballs, which are considered historical artifacts, were found in the restaurant section.
Experts from the İzmir Museum Directorate have placed the cannon and cannonballs, which qualify as historical artifacts, under protection.
After discussions with authorities in the Netherlands regarding the bronze ship cannon and 11 cannonballs, which are confirmed to be of Dutch origin and made in the first half of the 17th century, it was decided to exhibit the artifacts in İzmir.
The artifacts were opened to visitors in the Sea Power Hall at the İzmir Culture and Art Factory, with the participation of the General Director of Cultural Heritage Birol İnceciköz and the Dutch Ambassador to Ankara Joep Wijnands.
"As Turkey, we want to bring our own artifacts back from abroad."
After the opening, General Director of Cultural Heritage Birol İnceciköz told reporters that museum officials went to retrieve the artifact following a tip-off during the dismantling of the ship.
He explained that they identified the historical artifact's origin as the Netherlands and contacted the authorities there, continuing:
"We sat down with the Dutch side and discussed whether they wanted this artifact to be exhibited in our country or if they wanted it returned. Ultimately, they conveyed to us that exhibiting it in our country is particularly important for the friendship and cooperation between the two countries. In this context, we have included it in our exhibition."
Dutch Ambassador to Ankara Joep Wijnands also stated that he knows the artifacts are in safe hands, saying, "We have a 400-year relationship. This has also become a beautiful example of solidarity between the two countries. It is wonderful for such an artifact to come out of the ship."
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
