A gift presented by the people of Antalya. This is the Atat\u00fcrk Museum. It stands as a testament to the deep connection between Atat\u00fcrk and this beautiful city.
Atat\u00fcrk first visited Antalya on March 6, 1930. He arrived after a journey from Izmir. He sought rest in Antalya’s warm weather. The people of Antalya lined the roads. They cheered for their great leader. He arrived at Tophane Square at 16:00 hours. The villa was presented to him. It was a gift from the people.
After a short rest, Atat\u00fcrk addressed the crowds from the balcony. He expressed his gratitude to the people of Antalya. That evening, he engaged with the youth. They discussed the country’s issues at the Turkish Nationalist Club. He stayed in Antalya for a week. He explored museums and historical sites. He visited citrus gardens and spoke with producers. On March 12, 1930, he returned to Ankara.
Atat\u00fcrk visited Antalya again on February 10, 1931. He arrived via the Ege steamboat. He continued to Silifke without staying. His final visit was in February 1935. He arrived on February 18 with his sister Makbule Atadan and others. They arrived at the villa and rested. That night, he departed for Tasucu town.
The Atat\u00fcrk villa is a two-story stone building. It has a clay tile roof. A long hall marks the entrance. To the right, there is a living room, a room, a bathroom, and a kitchen. Two rooms and the staircase are on the left. The first floor has seven rooms including one with a balcony. Atat\u00fcrk slept in the room across from the stairs.
After Atat\u00fcrk’s death, the villa became a school. It served as the Night School of Crafts for Girls and The Institute for Girls. Later, it became the Directorate of Technical Agriculture. In 1980, the Ministry of Culture took over. It was restored and opened as the Atat\u00fcrk Museum.
During one of his visits, Atat\u00fcrk expressed his admiration for Antalya. He said “Hi\u00e7 \u015f\u00fcphesiz ki Antalya d\u00fcnyan\u0131n en g\u00fczel yeridir”. This translates to “Without a doubt, Antalya is the most beautiful place in the world.” He even renamed “Rumku\u015f” to “Erenku\u015f,” insisting on a Turkish name for Turkish land.
Inside the Atat\u00fcrk Museum, you’ll find a photo exhibition. It documents Atat\u00fcrk’s visits to Antalya. You can view a documentary titled “Atat\u00fcrk and Antalya.” The museum also displays Atat\u00fcrk’s personal belongings. See a collection of coins, paper money, stamps, and commemorative coins. These items reflect the history of the Republic.
The Atat\u00fcrk Museum stands as a symbol. It represents Atat\u00fcrk’s connection to Antalya. It also embodies the city’s love and respect for him. Each year on March 6, ceremonies honor Atat\u00fcrk.