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Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial

4.9
·33k reviews·, Türkiye

A colossal archway on the Gallipoli Peninsula honoring the 253,000 Turkish soldiers martyred in WWI. A powerful symbol of sacrifice and national pride...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Gelibolu Şehitliği 9

Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A colossal archway on the Gallipoli Peninsula honoring the 253,000 Turkish soldiers martyred in WWI. A powerful symbol of sacrifice and national pride.

4.9
(33k reviews)

"Visiting Canakkale and Gallipoli is an unforgettable and emotional experience, filled with deep respect, sorrow, and pride."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:

Allow ample time

To truly absorb the history and emotion, dedicate at least half a day. :clock1:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial

Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial

Gallipoli Peninsula

A colossal archway honoring the 253,000 Turkish soldiers who perished in the Gallipoli Campaign. A symbol of sacrifice and national pride.

The "Dur Yolcu" Inscription

The "Dur Yolcu" Inscription

Base of the Memorial

The poignant inscription: 'Stop, traveler! The soil you tread on is the soil of a hero.' A powerful reminder of the sacrifices made.

Memorial Cemetery

Memorial Cemetery

Adjacent to the Memorial

Rows of tombstones and the names of fallen soldiers offer a tangible connection to the past, evoking deep respect and sorrow.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Reflection

The Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial is a place of profound historical significance. Visiting during national commemoration days like March 18th (Martyrs' Day) offers a powerful experience but expect large crowds. For a more contemplative visit, consider weekdays outside of major holidays to fully absorb the solemn atmosphere and historical weight of the Gallipoli campaign.

Respectful Attire and Conduct

As a memorial and sacred site, visitors are expected to dress modestly and behave respectfully. Avoid loud conversations and be mindful of ongoing ceremonies or services. Many visitors find the experience deeply moving, so prepare for an emotional journey through history and sacrifice.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
March 18th
Why
National commemoration
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

“108 yıl önce Çanakkale'yi karadan da geçilmez kılan Anafartalar Kahramanı Mustafa Kemal Atatürk ve silah arkadaşlarını saygı ve rahmetle anıyoruz. Ruhları şâd olsun.” #ÇanakkaleGeçilmez 🎥: Gelibolu Tarihi Alan Başkanlığı . . . . . . . . #türkiye #turkic #turkicworld #turkicpeople #kopuz #kazakhstan #uzbekistan #kyrgyzstan #turkmenistan #bashkortostan #altai #azerbaijan #yakutsk #kumuk #uighur #h...
@turkicworldct
169.6K likes • 3.2M views

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe: Instagram

Allow ample time

To truly absorb the history and emotion, dedicate at least half a day. :clock1: Reddit

#çanakkalegeçilmez#çanakkalezaferi
@cenkuzey
143.3K likes • 1.7M views
🕊️ Çanakkale Martyrs’ Memorial (18 March) 🌅 Honoring the Sacrifice: Welcome to the Çanakkale Martyrs’ Memorial, a symbol of remembrance and reverence for the heroes who sacrificed their lives during the Gallipoli Campaign of World War I. Perched atop the rugged cliffs of the Gallipoli Peninsula, this memorial stands as a solemn tribute to the courage and resilience of the Turkish soldiers who def...
risingglobalevents
3 likes • 680 views

Be prepared for emotions

Many visitors find the experience deeply moving and reflective. :pleading_face: TikTok

Visit the nearby museum

The Çanakkale Sahra Hastanesi Museum offers deeper insights into the wartime conditions. :museum: TikTok

A Tribute to Courage and Sacrifice 🇹🇷 The Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial stands as a symbol of bravery and resilience, honoring those who gave their lives for their homeland. A place of remembrance, unity, and deep respect. 🕊️ "Çanakkale geçilmez!" #Çanakkale #MartyrsMemorial #NeverForget #Gallipoli #History #Turkey
turaturizm
23 likes • 579 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe: Instagram

Allow ample time

To truly absorb the history and emotion, dedicate at least half a day. :clock1: Reddit

Be prepared for emotions

Many visitors find the experience deeply moving and reflective. :pleading_face: TikTok

Visit the nearby museum

The Çanakkale Sahra Hastanesi Museum offers deeper insights into the wartime conditions. :museum: TikTok

Respect the solemnity

Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor throughout your visit. :pray: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(33k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently describe the Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial as a deeply moving and impressive site, evoking strong emotions of respect, sorrow, and pride. The monumental architecture and the historical significance of the Gallipoli Campaign leave a lasting impact, with many finding it an unforgettable experience. While the scale of the memorial is vast, some note it feels small in comparison to the immense weight of the campaign it commemorates.

"Impressive Architecture and National Pride. A towering and well-designed memorial that dominates and peninsula, visible from miles away over the Dardanelles. It perfectly honors the estimated 253,000 Turkish soldiers who fell here."

Kaphao Nalelada

"Amazing - The spectacular “Turkish Çanakkale Martyrs Memorial” overlooks Morto Bay and the Straits of the Dardanelles. It was very impressive (it is sort of like the Canberra War Memorial). Very moving."

Norm P.

"Visiting Canakkale and
Gallipoli is an unforgettable and emotional experience. The atmosphere here is filled with deep respect, sorrow, and pride. Standing among the memorials and cemeteries, you can truly feel the weight of history and the shared humanity that emerged from such a tragic war.

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s words to the mothers of the Anzac soldiers in 1934 perfectly capture the spirit of peace and reconciliation that defines this sacred place:

“Heroes who shed their blood on the soil of this country!
You are here in the soil of a friendly homeland.
Rest in peace and tranquility.
You are side by side with our soldiers.
Mothers who sent their sons to war from distant lands!
Dry your tears.
Your sons are in our bosom, in peace, and they will sleep soundly.
After giving their lives on this land, they have become our sons.”

These words reflect Atatürk’s extraordinary compassion and vision — a leader who, even after fierce battle, could speak of love, unity, and shared humanity.

Gallipoli is not just a battlefield; it is a symbol of peace, respect, and eternal remembrance. Visiting here reminds us that bravery, sacrifice, and reconciliation can transcend borders and generations."

Olcay Dulger

What People Like

Spectacular and impressive monument
Moving and emotional experience
Symbol of national pride

What People Dislike

Can be emotionally overwhelming

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The memorial is located on the Gallipoli Peninsula. You can reach it by car or by taking a ferry from Çanakkale city to Eceabat or Kilitbahir, followed by a bus or taxi. Many organized tours also include transportation to the site. Instagram

Yes, it's a popular day trip or overnight excursion from Istanbul. You can drive (approx. 5-6 hours including ferry), take a bus, or join an organized tour. Reddit

Renting a car or joining a guided tour are the most common ways to explore the peninsula and its various historical sites, including the memorial. Instagram

From Eceabat or Kilitbahir, local buses or taxis can take you to the memorial. However, schedules can be infrequent, so checking in advance is recommended. Instagram

Yes, there are organized swimming events that allow participants to swim towards the memorial from a certain distance. These are often part of larger swimming challenges. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the memorial itself is generally free. However, there might be fees for specific museums or areas within the Gallipoli Historical National Park. Instagram

The memorial is typically accessible year-round, but it's advisable to check official sources for any specific hours or potential closures, especially around national holidays. Instagram

While the memorial is free, access to the broader Gallipoli Historical National Park may involve a small entrance fee or require a park pass, depending on the specific zones you wish to visit. Instagram

The memorial is often illuminated at night, offering a different, equally impressive perspective. Access might be restricted after dark, so verify local regulations. Instagram

Yes, licensed guides are available at the site, and many organized tours from nearby cities include knowledgeable guides who can provide historical context. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

It commemorates the approximately 253,000 Turkish soldiers who died during the Battle of Gallipoli in World War I, serving as a powerful symbol of national sacrifice and resilience. Instagram+1

You'll see the imposing Martyrs' Memorial arch, the memorial cemetery with tombstones, and inscriptions like the famous 'Dur Yolcu' poem. The views over Morto Bay are also spectacular. TikTokReddit

While educational, the memorial's solemn nature and historical context might be more suitable for older children who can grasp the significance of the events. Reddit

Basic facilities such as restrooms are usually available. Information centers or small cafes might be present within the historical park area. Instagram

This famous Turkish poem translates to 'Stop, traveler! The soil you tread on is the soil of a hero.' It's a profound message to visitors about the sacrifices made. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The grand archway itself, the panoramic views from the top, and the rows of tombstones in the cemetery offer compelling photographic opportunities. Instagram+1

Yes, photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of any ongoing ceremonies or services and maintain a respectful distance. Instagram

Sunrise and sunset can offer dramatic lighting, while the memorial is also beautifully illuminated at night. Midday can be harsh due to direct sunlight. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and memorial sites to maintain the solemn atmosphere and for security reasons. Check local regulations before flying. TikTok

Capturing the scale of the memorial against the Dardanelles Strait, or close-ups of the inscriptions and tombstones, can convey the historical weight of the site. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting the Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial can be an educational experience for families, though the solemn nature of the site requires careful consideration. While the sheer scale of the memorial is impressive, the historical context of war and loss might be best explained to younger children in an age-appropriate manner. Focus on the themes of bravery, sacrifice, and peace. Reddit

Consider visiting the Çanakkale Sahra Hastanesi Müzesi (Field Hospital Museum) as it can offer a more tangible, less abstract understanding of the wartime conditions. Ensure children understand the importance of respectful behavior and quiet conduct throughout the visit. Many families find that focusing on the stories of heroism and the eventual peace achieved can make the experience more accessible and meaningful for younger visitors. TikTok

🤔 Budget Travelers

The Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial itself is free to enter, making it an accessible attraction for budget travelers. The primary costs will be transportation to the Gallipoli Peninsula and any food or souvenirs. Instagram

Opting for public transport like buses and ferries from nearby cities can be more economical than private tours. Packing your own snacks and water can also help save money. While guided tours offer in-depth historical context, exploring independently with a good map and guidebook can be a cost-effective alternative. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Gallipoli Campaign: A Historical Overview

The Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial stands as a testament to the brutal and pivotal Gallipoli Campaign (also known as the Battle of Çanakkale) of World War I. Fought between April 1915 and January 1916, this campaign was an ambitious attempt by the Allied Powers (primarily Britain, France, and their empire forces) to seize control of the Dardanelles Strait and open a sea route to Russia. The Ottoman Empire, with significant strategic defense, ultimately repelled the invasion.

The campaign resulted in immense casualties on both sides, with an estimated 253,000 Turkish soldiers martyred, alongside hundreds of thousands of Allied soldiers. The sheer scale of loss and the fierce resistance earned the battle a legendary status in Turkish history, solidifying the phrase 'Çanakkale Geçilmez' (The Dardanelles is impassable). This memorial is a direct tribute to the Turkish soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Visiting the memorial offers a tangible connection to this critical period. The Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial itself, inaugurated in 1960, is a colossal structure designed by Turkish architect Feridun Kip. It symbolizes the nation's gratitude and remembrance for its fallen heroes. The surrounding area, part of the Gallipoli Historical National Park, includes numerous other cemeteries, monuments, and trenches that further illuminate the events of the campaign. Instagram+3

Experiencing the Memorial: Emotion and Reflection

Visitors consistently describe the Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial as an unforgettable and emotional experience. The atmosphere is thick with a sense of deep respect, sorrow, and pride. Standing before the monumental arch and walking among the countless tombstones, one can truly feel the weight of history and the immense human cost of war. Many find themselves moved to tears, reflecting on the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers. TikTokReddit

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's words to the mothers of the Anzac soldiers in 1934 perfectly encapsulate the spirit of reconciliation and shared humanity that this site represents: 'Heroes who shed their blood on the soil of this country! You are here in the soil of a friendly homeland. Rest in peace and tranquility. You are side by side with our soldiers.' This sentiment highlights that Gallipoli is not just a battlefield, but a symbol of peace and eternal remembrance that transcends borders and generations. Reddit

To fully appreciate the memorial, it's recommended to allow ample time for quiet contemplation. The 'Dur Yolcu' inscription at the base of the memorial serves as a powerful reminder to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made. The nearby Çanakkale Sahra Hastanesi Müzesi (Çanakkale Field Hospital Museum) offers further context, detailing the harsh realities faced by soldiers and medical staff during the campaign. TikTok

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