"The Anit Kabir in Ankara" Turkey Things to Do Tip by Paul2001

The Anit Kabir is more famously known mausoleum of Ataturk or Mustafa Kemal. For those who have yet to visit Turkey, Ataturk is the first president the new Republic of Turkey. He was also a general of superior ability who was largely responsible for the defeat of the Allies in Gallipoli and the Greeks in the Turkish War of Independence. I do not have enough room to go into more detail and do Ataturk justice but he was quite simply one of the most important world leaders of the 20th century and certainly the most decisive figure in modern Turkish history. His picture is posted everywhere. Be on guard and do not talk negatively of him if you do not want to offend the Turks.
I did not know what to expect when visiting the mausoleum. The Anit Kabir is located on a large hill and the grounds are immaculately maintained. Most visitors are likely to approach the tomb via the Anit Cad. Part of the walkway is flanked by 24 lions hence is given the name the Lion Road As you do so you will pass a set of soldiers in dress uniforms who will present arms and march around on que. The mausoleum of Ataturk is located in a eight columned tomb that is rather stark upon an initial glance. However when you consider the surrounding building, it is rather impressive. Inside of the tomb is a marble sarcophagus which contains Ataturk's remains. In front of the tomb is large ceremonial ground which is 129 m. long and 84 m. wide. Along the perimeter is on the north side, there is a wall where there are many reliefs with images of Turkish patriotism. Along the west and south side of the ceremonial grounds is a passageway. In this passageway there is a small museum dedicated to Ataturk and the battles he fought. There are uniforms, weaponry and automobiles that he drove in. There are also dioramas depicting the Battle of Gallopili that were very impressive.
The Anit Kabir is free to visit. It is open from 9am to noon and from 1pm to 5pm.

Directions: The Anit Kabir is located 2km west of the city centre. The nearest metro station is Tandagon.