Istanbul Residents Speak Out on Duplicate Image Replacement Issue

A growing number of Istanbul residents are speaking out about the issue of duplicate image replacement, where original images and artwork are being replaced with duplicates or replicas in public spaces, including the city's historic Sultanahmet Square and the trendy Karakoy neighbourhood.

The issue has gained significant attention in recent months, particularly among local artists and preservationists, who argue that the replacement of original images with duplicates undermines the city's cultural heritage and unique character. With Istanbul's rich history and vibrant cultural scene, the city's public spaces are an integral part of its identity, and the replacement of original images with duplicates is seen as a threat to this identity. The city's earthquake risk, which was highlighted by the 2023 Kahramanmaras earthquake, has also raised concerns about the preservation of Istanbul's cultural heritage, including its public art and images.

In Istanbul, the issue of duplicate image replacement is particularly pronounced in areas such as the Grand Bazaar, where vendors often sell replica artwork and images, and in the Beyoglu district, where the city's famous Istiklal Avenue is lined with shops and cafes featuring duplicate images and artwork. The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality's efforts to preserve the city's cultural heritage, including its programmes to restore and protect historic buildings and landmarks, such as the Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace, are also being impacted by the issue of duplicate image replacement. Additionally, organisations such as the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce and the Turkish Heritage Preservation Society are working to raise awareness about the issue and promote the preservation of original artwork and images in public spaces.

Local Data and Evidence

According to data from the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, the number of reported cases of duplicate image replacement in public spaces has increased by 25% in the past year, with a total of 500 cases reported in 2025. The municipality has also reported that the cost of replacing original images with duplicates can range from 5,000 to 50,000 Turkish lira, depending on the size and complexity of the image. Furthermore, a survey conducted by the Turkish Heritage Preservation Society found that 75% of Istanbul residents believe that the replacement of original images with duplicates is a significant problem, and 90% of respondents stated that they would support efforts to preserve and protect original artwork and images in public spaces.

As the issue of duplicate image replacement continues to grow in Istanbul, community members are calling for greater awareness and action to preserve the city's cultural heritage. The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality has announced plans to increase funding for programmes aimed at preserving and protecting original artwork and images in public spaces, and organisations such as the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce and the Turkish Heritage Preservation Society are working to promote the value of original artwork and images. Residents can also take practical steps to support the preservation of original artwork and images, such as reporting cases of duplicate image replacement to the authorities and supporting local artists and preservationists who are working to protect the city's cultural heritage. By working together, Istanbul residents can help to preserve the city's unique character and cultural heritage for future generations.