ATATURK MAUSOLEUM

As the nationalist leader of the Turkish people and the founder of the Republic of Turkey, Atatürk was not only significant to Turks but also to people from many different countries. Upon his death on November 10th, 1938, his body was temporarily placed in the Ethnography Museum while the construction of Anıtkabir was underway.

Atatürk did not specify where he wished to be buried before his death. However, during a conversation with his friends, he mentioned that if he were to die, Çankaya (a district of Ankara) would be an ideal location for his grave. In an effort to demonstrate their love and respect for Atatürk, the Turkish people endeavored to fulfill his request by selecting Çankaya as the location for his final resting place.

Once upon a time, there were many Phrygian graves, dating back to the 12th century BC, including tumulus ruins in the area that is now home to Anıtkabir. These tombs once contained valuable artifacts, but they were later transferred to the Archaeological Museum. The location of Anıtkabir was selected by the Turkish deputy Mithat Aydın and the Turk committee of that period. They chose Rasattepe, which stands at 906 meters above sea level, as the site for Atatürk’s famous tomb. Furthermore, in 1941, the same committee organized an international competition that attracted 47 countries with valuable projects, including Turkey, Germany, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, France, and Czechoslovakia.

ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES 

Anıtkabir is comprised of four distinct sections:
The First Section: This involved the leveling of the ground for the tomb, as well as the construction of the Istinat Wall on the lion road leading to Atatürk’s mausoleum. This section was completed within one year.The Second Section: This area includes the tomb, the ceremony area, and the buildings added later. The design of the monument’s structure was planned in this section. Entry towers and other essential parts of the complex were also constructed here. The location is surrounded by a variety of trees such as acacias, ash trees, elm trees, honeysuckles, silverberries, and tamarisks, and includes a water system that creates a stunning atmosphere. This section was completed over a period of 5 years.

In the Third Section: This area includes the roads leading to the monument, as well as the Parade Ground and the tomb. Additionally, the steps leading to the tomb were constructed in this section.

The Fourth and final Section: This section includes the Honour Hall and the vaults. The area is decorated with stunning stone profiles and eaves motifs that reflect Seljuk and Italian architectural styles.

Covering an area of 15,000 square meters, Anıtkabir is surrounded by various towers, including the Istiklal (Liberty) and Hurriyet (Independence) Towers, the Lion Road, the Mehmetçik, Müdafa-I Hukuk, Republic, Victory, Revolution, Misak-I Milli (National Pact), and 23 April Towers.

The walls of Anıtkabir, made from dark-colored Bilecik marble, are 32 meters by 60 meters and 20 meters high. The ceiling of the Big Saloon is adorned with gold mosaics.

ATATURK MUSEUM

The glorious museum located in Anıtkabir contains Ataturk’s shaving sets, walking sticks, gifts, and other possessions, as well as numerous photographs of him and his valuable family. Additionally, the museum displays the weapons of famous figures such as Sabiha Gökçen (the first female combat pilot) and Afet İnan (an adopted child of Ataturk), as well as a miniature Quran belonging to Rukiye Erkine (another of his adopted daughters) that was given to her as a gift by Ataturk.

Furthermore, the museum features a special library dedicated to Ataturk. Among the numerous books found in the library, the most significant one is undoubtedly “Nutuk.” The library also contains books on Turkish and Islamic history, literature, social sciences, Turkish, Ottoman Turkish, French, English, German, Russian, Arabic, Persian, and Slavic languages, with a total of 3,115 books on display.

THE LIONS IN THE MONUMENT

FLAGSTAFF

If you’re interested in visiting the breathtaking Anıtkabir and exploring the fascinating history of Ataturk and Turkey, Tour Maker Turkey is here to make it happen! Our tours to Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, will take you on a journey through time, starting with the magnificent Anıtkabir, which stands as a symbol of the Turkish people’s love and respect for their beloved leader.

Our professional and knowledgeable tour guides will take you on a journey through Ataturk’s life, from his humble beginnings to his rise to power and his incredible legacy. You’ll learn about the struggles and triumphs of the Turkish people, as well as the country’s rich history and culture.

In addition to visiting Anıtkabir, our tours also include visits to other historical and cultural landmarks in Ankara, such as the Ankara Castle, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, and the Kocatepe Mosque. You’ll also have the chance to try traditional Turkish cuisine, explore local markets and bazaars, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Turkish people.

At Tour Maker Turkey, we’re dedicated to providing our clients with an unforgettable travel experience. We offer a range of tour packages to suit your needs and interests, including private tours, group tours, and customized itineraries. Our team of experts will work with you to create a tour that’s tailored to your preferences and budget.

So, if you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the history and culture of Turkey, book your tour with Tour Maker Turkey today! Contact us to learn more about our tour packages and start planning your trip to Ankara and Anıtkabir.