Anıtkabir

Anıtkabir is the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder and first president of the Republic of Turkey, located on Rasattepe hill in central Ankara. Construction began in 1944 and the monument was completed and opened in 1953.

The complex includes a long ceremonial approach, a broad plaza and the monumental Hall of Honor that houses Atatürk’s sarcophagus. The site also contains the Atatürk and Independence War Museum, landscaped Peace Park and multiple viewing terraces used for official commemorations and public visits.

Designed by architects Emin Onat and Orhan Arda, the site was planned and built in the 1940s and early 1950s as a national mausoleum and state monument. Since opening it has been the focus for state ceremonies, official wreath-laying and public remembrance.

Anıtkabir sits on a prominent hill overlooking the central districts of Ankara in Ankara Province. It is easily reached from the city center and is a major landmark and focal point in the capital.

• Ceremonial schedule: Public ceremonies are held on national holidays, and a formal guard and honor guards are present year-round near the mausoleum.
• Best time to visit: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid large tour groups and to see the plaza with softer light.

What to See #

• Hall of Honor: The Hall of Honor contains Atatürk's sarcophagus and is the focal indoor chamber of the complex, designed as a monumental, colonnaded hall.
• Ceremonial Plaza: The Ceremonial Plaza provides a broad processional space in front of the mausoleum and is used for state ceremonies and official commemorations.
• Peace Park: The Peace Park surrounds the complex with landscaped avenues and trees and was planted as part of the memorial setting.
• Atatürk and Independence War Museum: The Atatürk and War of Independence Museum displays personal items, documents, photographs and wreaths associated with Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and the Turkish War of Independence.