
Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial
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
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

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

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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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
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
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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Reflection
Respectful Attire and Conduct
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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:
Be prepared for emotions
Many visitors find the experience deeply moving and reflective. :pleading_face:
Visit the nearby museum
The Çanakkale Sahra Hastanesi Museum offers deeper insights into the wartime conditions. :museum:
Tips
from all over the internet
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:
Be prepared for emotions
Many visitors find the experience deeply moving and reflective. :pleading_face:
Visit the nearby museum
The Çanakkale Sahra Hastanesi Museum offers deeper insights into the wartime conditions. :museum:
Respect the solemnity
Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor throughout your visit. :pray:
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
The memorial is often illuminated at night, offering a different, equally impressive perspective. Access might be restricted after dark, so verify local regulations.
Yes, licensed guides are available at the site, and many organized tours from nearby cities include knowledgeable guides who can provide historical context.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
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.
Basic facilities such as restrooms are usually available. Information centers or small cafes might be present within the historical park area.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand archway itself, the panoramic views from the top, and the rows of tombstones in the cemetery offer compelling photographic opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of any ongoing ceremonies or services and maintain a respectful distance.
Sunrise and sunset can offer dramatic lighting, while the memorial is also beautifully illuminated at night. Midday can be harsh due to direct sunlight.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and memorial sites to maintain the solemn atmosphere and for security reasons. Check local regulations before flying.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🤔 Budget Travelers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Gallipoli Campaign: A Historical Overview
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.
Experiencing the Memorial: Emotion and Reflection
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.
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.




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