A national park near Dumlupınar (approx 60 km west of the city) commemorating the decisive 1922 Battle of Dumlupınar. Includes the Zafer Panorama — a large circular panoramic painting depicting the final engagement of the War of Independence — plus memorials and battlefield monuments.
The Başkomutan Historical National Park (Başkomutan Tarihi Milli Parkı) near Dumlupınar, on the border of Kütahya and Afyonkarahisar provinces in western Turkey, commemorates the decisive Battle of Dumlupınar fought between 26 and 30 August 1922 — the concluding engagement of the Turkish War of Independence. The national park encompasses the battlefield landscape, Turkish and Greek military cemeteries, numerous monuments and memorials, and the Zafer Panorama museum, which is the centrepiece of the visitor experience. The Zafer Panorama is a large-scale circular panoramic painting approximately 40 metres in diameter, housed in a purpose-built cylindrical museum building within the park. The painting depicts the key moments of the 1922 battle from multiple vantage points with near-life-scale figures, accompanied by recorded sound effects and interpretive text panels that guide visitors around the circumference of the hall. The panorama was installed in the 21st century as part of a broader state-funded commemorative programme. The outdoor battlefield monuments include the Mehmetçik Abidesi (Memorial to the Turkish Soldier), the Dumlupınar Atatürk Monument and markers identifying the positions of key units during the 30 August encirclement. A Turkish military cemetery and a separate Greek war graves enclosure are both maintained within the park. The site receives major state ceremonies on 30 August each year (Zafer Bayramı / Victory Day), including official delegations, military representatives and large public gatherings. The park lies approximately 90 km west of Afyonkarahisar city, well signposted from the main highway between Afyonkarahisar and Kütahya.
Location
Dumlupınar, Kütahya, Turkey (near Afyonkarahisar border)
38.8667, 29.9833 View on map
Highlights
- Zafer Panorama: 40-metre circular immersive painting of the 1922 Battle of Dumlupınar with sound effects
- Mehmetçik Abidesi and Dumlupınar Atatürk Monument on the open battlefield landscape
- Turkish and Greek military cemeteries from the August 1922 campaign
- Central site for annual 30 August Zafer Bayramı (Victory Day) national state ceremonies
- Open battlefield terrain on the Phrygian plateau where the decisive War of Independence engagement was fought
Tips for visiting
- The Zafer Panorama museum is the highlight — allow 30–40 minutes for the full circular immersive viewing experience
- Combine with a stop at Kocatepe (Atatürk's 1922 command hilltop) for a complete battlefield day itinerary
- A car is essential — public transport to the park is very limited; the site is approximately 90 km west of Afyonkarahisar city
- Arrive by midday to have time for both the panorama museum and the outdoor monuments, cemeteries and memorials
Accessibility
The Başkomutan Historical National Park has open-air pathways between monuments and memorials on varied terrain, which may present challenges for wheelchair users. The Zafer Panorama museum building has level access at ground level. Visitors with mobility difficulties should check current trail and path conditions at the park entrance.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an admission fee for the Başkomutan National Park?
Access to the park grounds, monuments and cemeteries is generally free. The Zafer Panorama museum inside the park charges a small admission fee; verify the current rate at the entrance.
How far is the park from Afyonkarahisar city?
The park is approximately 90 km west of Afyonkarahisar city, around a 75–90 minute drive along the main highway toward Kütahya.
Is the site suitable for children?
Yes. The large-scale panorama painting and sound effects are engaging for older children and the site has good outdoor walking areas. Allow 2–3 hours for a family visit covering the panorama and outdoor monuments.