Are you planning a trip to Turkey and looking for a unique and memorable experience? If so, you should not miss Anitkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder and first president of the Turkish Republic. Anitkabir is not only a stunning architectural masterpiece, but also a symbol of the history and culture of Turkey.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive and informative guide on Anitkabir, covering everything you need to know before you go, such as how to reach, what to see and do, when to visit, and more. Whether you are a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or a curious traveler, you will find something to enjoy and appreciate at Anitkabir.
Who is Mustafa Kemal Atatürk
Before we dive into the details of Anitkabir, let us first introduce you to the man who rests there: Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Atatürk is widely regarded as the father of modern Turkey, as he led the Turkish War of Independence and established the Turkish Republic in 1923. He was also a visionary leader who initiated a series of reforms that transformed Turkey into a secular, democratic, and progressive nation.
Some of his achievements include granting women the right to vote, adopting the Latin alphabet, promoting education and science, and fostering a sense of national identity and pride. He is revered and respected by millions of Turks, who call him “the Great Leader” and “the Eternal Commander”. He is also admired and honored by many world leaders, who praise him as “one of the greatest men of the 20th century” and “a genius in the art of leadership”.
How to Reach Anitkabir
Anitkabir is located in the capital city of Ankara, on a hill overlooking the city. It is easily accessible by public transport or taxi from different locations in Ankara. Here are some of the options you can choose from:
Metro: You can take the M1 line from Kızılay or Ulus and get off at Tandoğan station. From there, you can walk for about 15 minutes or take a minibus to Anitkabir.
Bus: You can take the 129, 202, or 362 bus from Kızılay or Ulus and get off at Anıtkabir stop. The bus ride takes about 20 minutes and costs 3.5 Turkish liras (0.4 USD).
Taxi: You can take a taxi from anywhere in Ankara and ask the driver to take you to Anitkabir. The taxi fare depends on the distance and traffic, but it should not exceed 50 Turkish liras (6 USD).
What to See and Do at Anitkabir
Anitkabir is more than just a mausoleum. It is also a museum, a park, and a cultural center. There are many attractions and activities to see and do at Anitkabir, such as:
Museum: The museum is located in the basement of the mausoleum and displays the exhibits, artifacts, and personal belongings of Atatürk and the Turkish Republic. You can learn about the life and achievements of Atatürk, the history and culture of Turkey, and the events and personalities that shaped the nation. Some of the highlights of the museum include Atatürk’s car, clothes, books, medals, and paintings, as well as the original Declaration of the Republic, the Treaty of Lausanne, and the Constitution of 1924. The museum is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm and the entrance fee is 10 Turkish liras (1.2 USD).
Changing of Guards: The changing of guards is a ceremony and ritual that takes place every hour at the entrance of the mausoleum. The guards are soldiers from the Turkish Armed Forces, who wear ceremonial uniforms and carry rifles. They march in a synchronized and solemn manner, accompanied by a drum and bugle corps. The ceremony lasts for about 10 minutes and attracts many visitors who watch and applaud the guards. The changing of guards is a sign of respect and honor for Atatürk and his legacy.
Park: The park is the green area surrounding the mausoleum, which covers about 750,000 square meters. The park is decorated with statues, fountains, and flowers that represent the history and culture of Turkey. You can stroll around the park and admire the sculptures of the Turkish War of Independence, the Lion Road, the Tower of Independence, and the Tower of Liberty. You can also relax and enjoy the fresh air and the panoramic view of Ankara.
When to Visit Anitkabir
The best time to visit Anitkabir depends on your preference and availability, but here are some factors to consider:
Season: Anitkabir is open all year round, but the weather can vary depending on the season. Ankara has a continental climate, with hot and dry summers and cold and snowy winters. The average temperature in summer is 23°C (73°F) and in winter is 2°C (36°F). The best seasons to visit Anitkabir are spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the park is colorful and beautiful.
Time of day: Anitkabir is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm, except on Mondays and Thursdays, when it is closed for maintenance. The best time of day to visit Anitkabir is in the morning or in the afternoon, when the sun is not too harsh and the crowds are not too large. You can avoid the peak hours of 12 pm to 2 pm, when the visitors are the most. You can also catch the sunset at Anitkabir, which is a spectacular sight to behold.
Anitkabir is a must-see attraction for anyone who visits Turkey and wants to learn more about its history and culture. It is a place where you can admire the magnificent architecture, explore the rich museum, witness the solemn ceremony, and enjoy the beautiful park. It is also a place where you can pay your respects to Atatürk and his legacy, and feel the patriotic and festive spirit of the Turkish people. Anitkabir is a place that will leave you with a lasting impression and a deeper understanding of Turkey.
