The Atatürk Memorial on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Çanakkale Province stands at Conkbayırı (Chunuk Bair), the ridge from which Mustafa Kemal Atatürk directed the Ottoman counter-offensive that retook the strategic high ground from New Zealand forces on 10 August 1915. The memorial is one of several on the Gallipoli Peninsula dedicated to the future founder of the Turkish Republic, reflecting his central role in the 1915 Dardanelles Campaign — a role that shaped his subsequent reputation and political trajectory.
The primary monument is a large bronze statue of Atatürk in military uniform, arm raised and extended across the ridge as if directing troops toward the Aegean. The positioning at the commanding height of the Conkbayırı ridge gives the statue an imposing presence against the open sky. Behind the statue, panels detail Atatürk's orders and battlefield decisions during the August offensive, placing his actions in the specific tactical context of the campaign.
The memorial is closely associated with Atatürk's famous order during the battle: 'I am not ordering you to attack. I am ordering you to die.' This directive, which reflected the critical importance of holding the ridge at any cost, is inscribed at the site and is one of the most quoted phrases in Turkish military history. The order was issued as a means to buy time for reserves to close a gap in the defensive line — a desperate command that became central to the founding narrative of the Turkish Republic.
A visit to the Atatürk Memorial takes 20–30 minutes and can be combined with the adjacent New Zealand Memorial obelisk and the Lone Pine Cemetery in a single stop. The site is free and open 24 hours. The views from the ridge toward both the Dardanelles and the Aegean provide a strategic perspective on the campaign's geography.
Good to know
- Hours
- Open 24 hours
- Best time
- morning
Location
Conkbayırı, Eceabat, Çanakkale
40.2191, 26.2938 View on map
Highlights
- Large bronze statue of Atatürk in military uniform at the commanding Conkbayırı summit
- Site of Atatürk's famous order: 'I am not ordering you to attack. I am ordering you to die.'
- Panoramic ridge-top view toward both the Aegean Sea and the Dardanelles Strait
- Adjacent to the New Zealand National Memorial — two nations' commemorations at the same summit
- Interpretive panels detailing Atatürk's command role in the decisive August 1915 offensive
Tips for visiting
- Combine with Lone Pine Cemetery (300m south) and the New Zealand Memorial (adjacent) in one stop
- Read the battle-order panels before the statue — the context makes the memorial far more meaningful
- Morning visits are cooler and the ridge is clearer before midday haze develops
- No admission fee; open at all hours as part of the Gallipoli Historical National Park
- The wind can be strong at the ridge; bring a layer even in summer
When to visit
Morning visits are recommended for clear Aegean and Dardanelles views and cooler ridge temperatures. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons; ANZAC Day (25 April) and surrounding days see very high visitor numbers across all Gallipoli sites.
Accessibility
The memorial area at the ridge summit is on maintained flat ground and is generally accessible, though the approach path from the car park involves some gentle slopes. Wheelchair access to the immediate memorial is possible; the adjacent trench lines are not accessible.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Why is Atatürk so prominently commemorated at Gallipoli?
Mustafa Kemal commanded the key Ottoman defence of the Conkbayırı ridge and was one of the most effective Ottoman commanders of the campaign. His success at Gallipoli established his military reputation and contributed to his rise as a nationalist leader and ultimately the founder of the Turkish Republic.
What is the famous Atatürk order quoted at the Gallipoli memorial?
The order of 10 August 1915 reads: 'I am not ordering you to attack. I am ordering you to die. In the time which passes until we die, other troops and commanders can come forward and take our places.' It reflects the desperate strategic situation at the ridge and became a defining phrase in Turkish military culture.
Is the Atatürk Memorial at Gallipoli separate from the Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial?
Yes. The Çanakkale Şehitleri Anıtı (Martyrs' Memorial) is a large monument near Morto Bay dedicated to all Ottoman soldiers who died in the Dardanelles Campaign. The Atatürk Memorial at Conkbayırı is a separate monument dedicated specifically to his command role at the ridge.