Atatürk Monument and Republic Square, Antalya

Monument and Square in Antalya

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Maksym Kozlenko

At the centre of Antalya, Republic Square, or Cumhuriyet Meydanı, is one of the best places to visit in Antalya for experiencing the city's modern character and community spirit. Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea with sweeping views of the harbour and the Taurus Mountains, it is a lively open space where locals gather for celebrations, evening strolls, and national events. The square is surrounded by cafés, fountains, and gardens, making it a relaxing spot to pause while exploring the city. It is also a great place to visit on a walking tour of Antalya, especially at sunset when the light softens over the sea and the square fills with the hum of local life.

About the Monument

Standing tall in the middle of the square is the Atatürk Monument, a bronze statue dedicated to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic. The figure depicts him confidently beside the national flag, symbolising Türkiye’s unity, independence, and forward vision. Locals often visit the site to pay their respects, while national holidays such as Republic Day on 29 October and Victory Day on 30 August bring the area to life with parades, music, and cultural performances. For travellers, the monument offers a quiet yet powerful glimpse into the heart of Turkish identity.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Best time to visit: Late afternoon or early evening for the best light and a cooler breeze.
Photography tip: Capture the monument with the sea and mountains in the background for a striking shot.
Local experience: Try a coffee or fresh juice at one of the nearby cafés and enjoy the relaxed energy of the square.
Accessibility: The area is open and level, making it easy to explore for visitors of all ages.
Events: If you’re visiting in late October or August, check for Republic Day or Victory Day festivities for a truly local experience.

How to Get to Republic Square

Reaching Republic Square is straightforward. It is located in the city centre and is easily accessible by public transport. The AntRay tram stops nearby at İsmetpaşa Station, just a short walk from the square. Local buses from Konyaaltı, Lara, and other main districts stop in the area, and taxis are readily available. Travellers staying in the Old Town or near the marina can reach the square on foot in just a few minutes, making it a convenient and scenic stop on any Antalya itinerary.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (4,852)

Republic Square (Cumhuriyet Meydanı) in Muratpaşa, Antalya is a lively, well‑kept public square edged by cafes with sea and city views and dominated by an equestrian Atatürk statue; visitors praise its clean surfaces, photo opportunities, nearby old mosque and marina, convenient access up and down via stairs or a glass lift (though queues or closures are occasionally mentioned), and a choice of cafés for reasonably priced drinks and people‑watching.

Marlene

4 months ago

"Like most places I have visited in Türkiye. This place is very clean. So clean that the floor can be a bit slippery... Beautiful square and niceviews overlooking Antalya and the sea...."

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Mahmoud Sabbah

a year ago

"A suitable place for hiking is beautiful and wonderful. There are several different places. There is an old mosque. You can take pictures there. Whenyou get to a place, you will start to take pictures of the place Then you will start to take personal and memorial photos A nice and beautiful place that is useful for families or friends If you visit Antalya, I advise you to go to it..."

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Reginald Jones

a year ago

"Beautiful part of town, just ip from the marina, and I mean up. If you go down to the marina, get your O2 out to get back to the top. You can walkaround a number of ways from the furthest to straight up the stairs. Do not be fooled by the lift. It was closed. Keep to the cafes more than the restaurant as you will pay large prices, but for us who like a cold beer. There is a great cafe off by the side of the monument who seems to have a happy hour all day long and charges you 100tl for a large beer. With good price for food...."

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Assaad Chamoun

7 months ago

"Republic Square (Cumhuriyet Meydanı) is a central and historically significant public space in Antalya, Türkiye. Situated near the old town districtof Kaleiçi, the square serves as a vibrant gathering place for both locals and tourists. At the heart of Republic Square stands the National Ascension Monument (Ulusal Yükseliş Anıtı), a prominent bronze statue unveiled in 1964. Created by sculptor Hüseyin Gezer, the monument features Mustafa Kemal Atatürk on horseback, accompanied by a boy and a girl symbolizing the nation's youth. The base of the monument includes inscriptions of key dates from Türkiye's War of Independence, highlighting Atatürk's leadership in the founding of the Republic. Republic Square is more than a historical site; it's a lively cultural hub. The square frequently hosts public events, national celebrations, and cultural festivals, reflecting the city's dynamic spirit. Surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops, it offers visitors a chance to experience local cuisine and engage in people-watching amidst a bustling atmosphere. 📍 Accessibility and Nearby AttractionsnLocated in the city center, Republic Square is easily accessible via public transportation and is within walking distance of several key attractions: * **Kaleiçi (Old Town):** A historic district known for its narrow streets, Ottoman-era houses, and ancient city walls. * **Antalya Marina:** Offers picturesque views of the Mediterranean Sea and is a short stroll from the square. * **Atatürk Avenue:** A bustling street lined with shops and eateries, perfect for shopping and dining. ### 🎟️ Visitor Informatio n* **Admission:** Free * **Opening Hours:** Open 24/7 * **Best Time to Visit:** Evenings are particularly lively, with illuminated monuments and a vibrant crowd. Republic Square stands as a testament to Antalya's rich history and contemporary culture, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city...."

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Gadgets N

3 years ago

"Beautiful square with amazing view and near all the shopping streets and Marina , there is a glass lift that will take you straight down to themarina(free) but there is a queue for the lift , but not so long ...."

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The Atatürk Monument and Republic Square appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Antalya!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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