Anitkabir: A Tour of the Monumental Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk
Anitkabir is the monumental mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder and first president of the Republic of Turkey. Situated on a hilltop in the center of Ankara, the capital of Turkey, the mausoleum is a place of great significance both to the people of Turkey and to visitors from around the world. It is a powerful symbol of Turkish nationalism and pride, and a reminder of Atatürk’s legacy and the modern history of Turkey.
Overview of Anitkabir
Anitkabir was designed by the Turkish architect Orhan Arda and was completed in 1953, two years after Atatürk’s death. The complex consists of several buildings and is surrounded by a large landscaped park. It is divided into three main areas: the Peace Park, the Atatürk Museum, and the mausoleum itself. The mausoleum is located at the center of the complex and is the most prominent feature.
Peace Park
The Peace Park is the outermost area of Anitkabir and covers an area of approximately 4 hectares. The park is laid out in the form of a crescent and is filled with trees, shrubs, and flowerbeds. It is surrounded by a low wall and is accessible to visitors. At the center of the park stands a large monument of a lion with its paw on the symbol of the Republic of Turkey.
Atatürk Museum
The Atatürk Museum is located in the center of the complex and is dedicated to the life and legacy of Atatürk. The museum houses a large collection of photographs, documents, and objects related to Atatürk and the modern history of Turkey. It also includes a library, a theater, and a conference hall.
Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk
The mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk is the largest and most impressive building in Anitkabir. It is a two-story structure made of white marble and granite, and is topped by a large dome. The mausoleum is fronted by a large terrace and is surrounded by four minarets. Inside, the mausoleum houses Atatürk’s sarcophagus, along with a number of sculptures and monuments.
Visiting Anitkabir
Anitkabir is open to the public every day of the year except for the first three days of the religious festival of Kurban Bayramı. Visitors are able to explore the Peace Park and the Atatürk Museum free of charge, while there is a small fee to enter the mausoleum. Guided tours are available in several languages and can be arranged in advance.
Anitkabir is a place of great significance to the people of Turkey and a reminder of Atatürk’s legacy. The mausoleum is an impressive structure and a powerful symbol of Turkish nationalism. It is well worth a visit for anyone visiting the capital of Ankara or wishing to learn more about the modern history of Turkey.