Historic Paterson Mansion and Cultural Park

History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore The historical Paterson Mansion (Big House) is the most monumental and magnificent representative of Izmir's 19th century cosmopolitan trade and Levantine culture in the Bornova plain. The mansion, which was started to be built in 1859 by Scottish corn and mineral merchant John Paterson, combines English rural mansion architecture with the Aegean climate with its 38 rooms, large reception halls, towers and terraces. The fireplaces, ornamental stones and stained glass used in the construction of the mansion were brought from England and Italy by special ships; The huge garden around it has been transformed into a botanical garden with rare exotic plants and trees brought from all over the world. The mansion, which was used as NATO headquarters, carpet factory and office for many years, was restored faithfully by Izmir Metropolitan Municipality and added to the cultural memory of the city. According to the narratives, the magnificent balls held in the mansion, where many distinguished guests were hosted, from the ambassadors of the Queen of England to the Ottoman pashas in the 19th century, and the swan pool in the garden were the infamous symbol of elegance of old Bornova. Geographical Structure, Altitude and Natural Features It is located in Bornova district center, on Fevzi Çakmak Street, at an altitude of approximately 40 meters. It has a 25-acre lush historical park area with centuries-old magnolias, palms, Lebanon cedars and redwood trees. Visiting Hours, Days and Entrance Fees