Izmit

This was built in the 1860s as a lodge for Sultan Abdulaziz (1830-1876), who much admired Europe and sought a neoclassical bling pavilion in which to pose. He also built up the Turkish navy into a considerable force, but caused the Ottoman Empire to implode financially and militarily. He was deposed and soon afterwards was found in a pool of blood, like a scenario from Cluedo. His successor only lasted 3 months before being deposed then it was Abdul Hamid II's turn.

This is in the 19th century former railway station, facing the modern TCDD. It re-opened as a museum in 2007 and displays Paleolithic, Hellenic, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman findings. However some exhibits are being moved to other city museums.

An old US warship and a submarine have been moored here and converted into a museum of maritime warfare. By prior booking of guided tour.

Paper-making developed in China around 100 AD, spread to the Middle East in the medieval period and then to the west. It revolutionised the transmission of knowledge and artistry, and shifted power away from Egypt with its papyrus. From the mid-19th century paper was made from wood pulp instead of textile rags, so books and newspapers became cheaper and fostered literacy and democracy. The SEKA paper mill opened in 1936 and closed in 2005. Its mill halls have been converted into a museum of the technology and artistry.

Hands-on science museum suitable for older children.