Anitkabir (Anıtkabir)

Turks do not see Anitkabir as a tourist attraction; they see it as a place to pay respect. Each year millions climb the hill in Ankara to stand at the tomb of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the leader of the War of Independence and founder of the Republic in 1923. Visitors from abroad are also welcome, at no charge. Its size, its peaceful gardens and the museum beneath it make it the key visit in the capital.

Quick facts

History

Ataturk died in Istanbul on 10 November 1938, and his first resting place was the Ethnography Museum in Ankara. Architects Emin Onat and Orhan Arda won the competition to design a permanent mausoleum, and it was built between 1944 and 1953. On 10 November 1953, fifteen years after his death, his body was carried to Anitkabir in a state ceremony.

The architecture combines modern forms with echoes of ancient Anatolian cultures such as the Hittites, and of Turkish traditions. The second president, Ismet Inonu, who was a close companion of Ataturk, also lies here, in a tomb opposite the Hall of Honour.

What to see

• Road of Lions. A 262-metre walkway with 24 stone lions set in pairs, based on Hittite art, leading up to the main square.
• Ceremonial Plaza. A vast paved square surrounded by colonnades, its paving laid out like a carpet pattern.
• Hall of Honour. The colonnaded building resembling a temple at the top of the stairs. A lone marble cenotaph stands inside a long hall, with the real burial chamber underneath.
• Museum. Beneath the Hall of Honour, the Ataturk and War of Independence Museum displays his personal items, cars and gifts, together with large panoramic paintings of the war's main battles.
• Towers. Ten small towers around the site, each named for an ideal of the Republic, for example Independence, Liberty and Peace.

Etiquette

Soldiers guard Anitkabir, which is a state memorial. Dress tidily, speak quietly in the Hall of Honour, and never touch the guards or stand in their way. You may take photos in most parts. Big bags may be refused, so ask at the entrance. At 09:05 on 10 November, the time of Ataturk's death, the entire country stops, and Anitkabir fills with people paying their respects.

When to go

Weekday mornings are more peaceful. National holidays such as Republic Day on 29 October draw huge crowds and special ceremonies, and opening hours are sometimes extended. Spring and autumn are good for strolling through the gardens. Ankara winters are cold and sometimes snowy, so wrap up.

Anitkabir is included on our longer private tours that stop in the capital. The 12 Days Best of Turkey Private Tour and the 14 Days Best of Turkey Private Tour both feature it, together with Hattusa, Cappadocia, Ephesus and Pamukkale. Our Ankara destination page lists more sights in the city.

Getting there

Anitkabir lies near the city centre. Tandogan station on the Ankaray metro line is a few minutes on foot from the main gate on the Tandogan side. Taxis can let you out at the gate. From there, an easy walk through the park brings you to the beginning of the Road of Lions.

Tips

• Leave enough time for the museum. Many people do not expect it to be so big.
• The War of Independence is not well known outside Turkey, so a guide or the information panels help you follow the panoramic battle paintings.
• Plants from all over Turkey grow in the gardens around the monument, which are pleasant for a quiet stroll.
• On the same day, you can add the Anatolian Civilizations Museum and Ankara Castle.

Frequently Asked Questions