Istanbul-based real estate firm TY Gayrimenkul has purchased the historic U.S. Embassy building in Ankara, which served as the residence for U.S. envoys from 1930 until its relocation in 2022, along with its 23-decare plot comprising four parcels.
The U.S. Embassy officially relocated its operations to a newly constructed building in the Cukurambar district on August 29, 2022. This move marked the end of an era for the iconic premises on Hosdere Ataturk Boulevard, which had served as the embassy’s home for over nine decades.
The original building, recognized for its historical and cultural significance, was designated a third-degree archaeological site because of its unique architecture and enduring legacy in the city.
Value of historic building remains confidential
Briefing exclusively to business-based patronlardunyasi.com about the purchase, Semsettin Hanci, Chairman of Ashan Group, incorporating TY Gayrimenkul, confirmed that the sale was finalized 30 to 40 days ago, with the official protocol signed a month ago.
However, diplomatic procedures between the foreign ministries of Türkiye and the U.S. delayed the process. Hanci noted that the title deed was handed over just last week.
Hanci concealed the sale price, stating, “It cost a significant amount, but we are bound by a confidentiality agreement, so I cannot provide any details.”
Regarding plans for the site, Hanci explained: “We currently have no finalized projects for the land and building. We intend to proceed in consultation with the urban dynamics of the area. Our goal is to develop a project that benefits Ankara. This is a very special location, a once-in-a-century opportunity. We decided to acquire it without committing to a specific project because of its prime land status.”
TY Gayrimenkul, a real estate firm established by the Trabzon-rooted Hanci family four years ago, is part of the Ashan Group.
The group is a longstanding enterprise providing catering services for Türkiye’s major projects over the past 30 years and employs over 5,000 staff.
