History is full of the names of eminent heroic leaders who have shaped this world and while talking about the enthusiasm and solicitude of such great men for their countries, the endless efforts of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk are always acknowledged. He was an army officer, a revolutionist statesman and the founder of the Republic of Turkey. After his death, a grand mausoleum Anitkabir was built in Ankara (Turkey) to represent his eminence and his thoughts about revolution, principles and modernization. This tomb is considered to be one of the most impressive and sacred places by visitors. The Seljuq and Ottoman ornamentation and architectural features have made it the ultimate monument of this era and highly tempt the tourists to take cheap flights to Ankara and visit this astounding mausoleum.
The site chosen for the construction of the grand tomb was known as Rasattepe (Observation Hill) which was the central location of Ankara at the time of architectural contest for Anitkabir. It took almost 9 years and 4 stages for the completion that commenced in 1944 by laying down the foundation stone. The tomb is characterized by symmetrical, cut-stone clad work, with great importance given to workmanship and detailing in construction. Anitkabir is divided into 4 main parts:
Road of Lions:
A 262 metres long pedestrian walkway covered with 12 pairs of lions from both the sides and carved in Hittite archaeological style.
Ceremonial Plaza:
Ceremonial Plaza is situated at the end of the Lions road, which is 129 metres long and 84 metres wide. The floor is beautified with 373 Kilim (Turkish Carpet) patterns and rugs and is made up of coloured travertine.
Hall of Honor:
The iconic symbol of Ataturk’s tomb which is 137*188 feet horizontal, with the height of 17 metres.
Peace Park:
This Park surrounds the monument and represents the famous expression of Ataturk “Peace at home, peace in the world”. It is ornamented with 104 varieties of flowers and shrubs and 50,000 decorative trees.
Towers and Statues:
Within Anitkabir there are ten towers arranged symmetrically which symbolizes the beliefs that influenced the nation, and also the creation of Turkey. They are Independence Tower, Freedom Tower, Women Statue Group, Mehmetcik Tower, Men Statue Group, Victory Tower, Tower of Reforms, 23rd April Tower, National Pact Tower and Peace Tower.
Anıtkabir Ataturk Museum:
It was opened in June 1960 and contains Ataturk’s personal belongings, wardrobe and other memorabilia. The museum also exhibits the items that were donated by Ataturk’s adopted children.
Due to inland location and elevation, Ankara has continental climate with snowy winters and dry hot summers. Rainfall occurs during spring and autumn making the atmosphere pleasant and moderate. You must plan to head towards Ankara as this city undoubtedly worth a trip.
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