Gaziler is a neighborhood in the Kepez district of Antalya, Turkey. It is located in the northwestern part of the city, near the border with the village of Manavgat. The neighborhood is home to a mosque, a school, and various shops and restaurants. Gaziler’s name means “Veterans.”
Gaziler was originally called Araplar, meaning “Arabs.” This name was given to the neighborhood because of the fact that Arabs settled there during the Ottoman era. They were part of the regular army, known as the Janissaries, which were a part of the military force that was founded as an elite infantry unit. These soldiers defended the Ottoman empire from invaders.
A lot of the soldiers who served in the Ottoman army were recruited from enslaved Christians in Europe, who were raised as Muslims. They were highly trained warriors and served the Ottoman Sultan, with their loyalty paramount. They lived and trained in special quarters called “Gaziler Barracks,” hence the name change to Gaziler. Their main purpose was to enforce the decrees of the Sultan and to protect the Empire. They played a major role in the Ottoman Empire’s military conquests and expansion, which is why they are considered heroic figures and have been celebrated for their bravery and sacrifice.