METU Atatürk Monument, Bronze monument at Middle East Technical University campus in Çankaya, Turkey
The METU Atatürk Monument is a circular bronze-clad structure with a seven-meter diameter, resting on a concrete base positioned on the campus's naturally elevated terrain. The abstract design stands as a focal point on the university grounds, visible from several pathways across the site.
The monument emerged from a design competition held in 1965, with sculptor Şadi Çalık completing the work in 1966. It marked Turkey's first abstract approach to commemorating Atatürk, breaking from traditional representational styles of earlier memorials.
The six surfaces of the monument display continuous inscriptions of Atatürk's principles, arranged to resemble pages of an unfolding book that speak to visitors about his vision.
The monument is located within the university campus and accessible to visitors who can enter the grounds. Plan your visit during regular campus hours, as the site becomes a focal point for ceremonies on November 10th, when special access arrangements may apply.
A fire burns atop the monument during commemoration ceremonies, creating a striking nighttime image against the sky. The bronze surfaces reflect changing light throughout the day and across seasons, giving the structure a different appearance with each visit.
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