Monument for 100 Years of the Republic of Turkey

Çaldağ is an ancient monument.
A witness to the past, present and future.
A representation of a nation and geography with all its wear and tear…
The republic is a threshold. 
A transition from darkness to light, civilization, peace.
May it live forever…

Interpreting Monuments and Memorials
A monument is defined as a significant, symbolic structure commemorating pivotal events or figures throughout history for future generations. Conversely, a “memorial space” emphasizes remembrance and memory, defining a place rather than a physical structure or object.

Despite their grand scale, monuments are often described as “invisible” by Robert Musil (1998), closed to direct experience and limiting free thought and emotion. The challenge lies in bridging the gap between the monumental representation and personal memory, often relying on fictionalized projections. Over time, these spatial constructs become memories, struggling to sustain their original purpose of linking past, present, and future (Erbaş Gürler & Özer, 2013).

In response, memorial spaces should not merely recreate fictional realities but offer platforms for subjective engagement and new memories (Gürler, Özer, Yetişkin 2016). This approach focuses on the emotional and experiential interactions within these spaces, influenced by commemorative paths, discourse, and the surrounding landscape.

Çaldağ Hill: A Living Monument
Ankara, a desolate steppe town in 1919, witnessed a historic moment on December 27th when Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and his companions were welcomed by thousands of Seymen atop Çaldağ Hill, lit by fires throughout the night. This hill symbolizes the beginning of the War of Independence.

From classical monuments to contemporary designs, memorials increasingly integrate into urban landscapes, engaging human sensibilities beyond commemoration. Çaldağ Hill, with its historical significance and panoramic view over Ankara, embodies collective memory. Despite its weathered appearance and surrounding quarries, it stands as a testament to the pre-Republic era’s nation and geography.

The Republic signifies a transformative threshold, symbolizing progress from adversity to enlightenment and freedom. Visitors crossing this threshold reach Cumhuriyet Park, symbolizing the vibrant and eternal spirit of the Republic. The park, designed to harmonize with the hill’s topography and complemented by diverse plant textures, offers a year-round ritual of remembrance and reflection.