Anıtkabir
The mausoleum of Kemal Atatürk, father of the Turkish nation. The grand Lion Road, ceremonial plaza, and changing of the guard make it Ankara's premier landmark.
Anıtkabir was built between 1944 and 1953, blending classical Anatolian and modernist styles, on Rasattepe hill in western Ankara. Guarded by 24 stone lions, the Lion Road leads to a ceremonial plaza that can hold 15,000 people. Inside the main hall is a symbolic sarcophagus of the national father, while the actual tomb lies directly beneath it. The underground Atatürk and War of Independence Museum displays his personal belongings, his car, and panoramic paintings of the War of Independence, offering a wealth of information. Entry is free, but security checks and modest dress are required. The guard changing ceremony can be watched. From Tandoğan station on the Ankaray line, it is about a 10-minute walk to the entrance.
Opening hours
09:00–17:00 (until about 16:00 in winter)
Nearby sights
- CerModern
- Gençlik Parkı
- Ethnography Museum of Ankara
- Republic Museum
- Museum of the War of Independence
- Kocatepe Mosque
- Roman Baths of Ankara
- Museum of Anatolian Civilizations