Photos of Atatürk’s mourning ceremony in Anatolia unveiled

ÇANAKKALE

Rare photographs from the official mourning ceremony in Anatolia for modern Türkiye founder Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, held on Nov. 21, 1938, have surfaced, showcasing the nation's profound collective grief.

The images were uncovered during archival research by Barış Bolat, director of the Atatürk and Çanakkale Wars Research Center (AÇASAM) at Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University (ÇOMU).

The first mourning ceremony occurred following Atatürk’s passing on Nov. 10, 1938.

“After Atatürk’s death the nation was engulfed in deep sorrow. While the main mourning ceremony was held on Nov. 10, a second official commemoration was ordered for Nov. 21. This ceremony unified the nation, with events in all provinces, districts and even villages,” Bolat explained.

Atatürk’s death marked a profound turning point in Türkiye’s history. His body was first displayed for public viewing at Dolmabahçe Palace between Nov. 16 and 18, where massive crowds came to pay their respects. Tragically, the overwhelming turnout resulted in stampedes, claiming 11 lives.

Afterward, Atatürk’s body was transported to Ankara, where a temporary resting place at the Ethnography Museum awaited until the construction of Anıtkabir, his mausoleum.

On Nov. 21, nationwide ceremonies took place simultaneously at 2 p.m., with schools closed and flags at half-mast.

In Anatolia, thousands gathered in town squares, villages and city centers.

“In archival photographs from Anatolia, we see city squares filled with sobbing crowds,” Bolat noted. “The National Anthem was sung, followed by the 10th Anniversary Anthem, and students delivered speeches about Atatürk’s life and reforms. At 4 p.m., the nation observed a three-minute moment of silence.”

The photographs also revealed unique details of local ceremonies, including illuminations around Atatürk statues and soldiers keeping vigils until dawn.

“Even in remote villages, ceremonies were held with teachers leading the community in remembrance of Atatürk’s vision and values,” Bolat said.

“The spirit of the Republic was vividly reflected in these events.”

The images, now part of AÇASAM’s archive, showcase the magnitude of the respect and admiration the Turkish people held for Atatürk, who continues to inspire modern Türkiye.

Atatürk, who led Türkiye’s War of Independence, passed away in Istanbul after prolonged health struggles.

In a related development, the house where Atatürk was born in Thessaloniki, Greece, will undergo restoration starting Dec. 4. The Turkish Consulate General in Thessaloniki announced that the restoration will enhance the museum’s displays and preserve the site for future generations.

The museum, which attracted a record 460,000 visitors in 2023, will remain closed until the work is completed, with reopening dates to be announced later.