Forgotten Ottoman artillery of Canakkale now open to public after 109 years

In a remarkable development for heritage preservation, the Ottoman artillery positions near Seddulbahir village, buried for 109 years, have been meticulously restored and opened to the public.

This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism’s Canakkale Wars Gallipoli Historical Site Directorate, is a significant step in showcasing Türkiye’s rich wartime history.

Groundbreaking restoration project

The “Artillery Positions Restoration and Environmental Improvement Project,” which began last year, aims to transform the Canakkale battlefields into a living open-air museum. The project has focused on restoring and beautifying 15 key artillery positions across the region. These include positions at the Martyrs’ Memorial, Ertugrul Cove, Kucukanafarta and Seddulbahir village.

Under the expert guidance of historians and restoration specialists, these artillery positions, which have been buried for over a century, are now visible for the first time in decades. This restoration effort not only uncovers physical artifacts but also revitalizes the stories of valor and sacrifice that define the Canakkale Wars.

Preserving spirit of Canakkale

Ismail Kasdemir, head of the historical area, expressed the project’s importance in a recent statement. He highlighted that the restoration of these positions aims to deepen visitors’ understanding of the Canakkale spirit.

“By revealing these artillery positions where our soldiers once stood, we strive to offer a more profound experience of the bravery and resilience that characterized Canakkale. This land was where Türkiye emerged from its ashes, and these positions were crucial in the defense of Canakkale,” Kasdemir said.

The project reflects a broader effort to preserve and honor Türkiye’s historical legacy. By opening these sites to the public, visitors can experience the valor of the Mehmetcik soldiers firsthand and gain a deeper appreciation of the strategic importance of these artillery positions during the war.

Transforming historical battlefield into open-air museum: Ottoman artillery revealed

The restoration work has involved extensive excavation and conservation efforts. The 15 artillery positions include significant sites such as two at the Martyrs’ Memorial, two at Ertugrul Cove, two at Kucukanafarta, and nine around Seddulbahir village.

Each site has been meticulously restored to reflect its historical significance while ensuring that the environmental changes enhance the visitor experience.

The goal is to create an immersive environment where visitors can walk through history and witness the strategic placements and conditions under which the artillery was used. This open-air museum aims to offer a comprehensive view of the wartime landscape, allowing people to connect with the past in a tangible way.

Tribute to heroes of Canakkale

Kasdemir emphasized that the restoration not only preserves physical artifacts but also serves as a tribute to the heroes of the Canakkale Wars. “These positions are more than just historical relics; they are symbols of the immense sacrifice and courage demonstrated by our ancestors. By unearthing and preserving these sites, we honor their memory and ensure that their legacy continues to inspire future generations,” he noted.

The restoration also highlights the importance of preserving historical memory and educating the public about the significant events that shaped the nation. Kasdemir encouraged visitors to explore the sites and reflect on the sacrifices made by the Mehmetcik soldiers.

“We invite everyone to come and experience the Canakkale spirit. By walking through these historic positions, you will gain a better understanding of the immense resistance and heroic efforts of our ancestors,” he said.

Connecting with Türkiye’s historic victories

August holds a special place in Turkish history, with significant victories such as Manzikert (Malazgirt), Sakarya, and the Great Offensive, alongside the legendary Anafartalar and Canakkale victories. Kasdemir pointed out that this restoration project contributes to a broader understanding of Türkiye’s military achievements.

“August is a month of great victories for our nation. By exploring these restored positions, visitors can connect with the heroic past and appreciate the full scope of Türkiye’s historical triumphs,” he added.

The reopening of Canakkale’s Ottoman artillery positions represents a significant milestone in the preservation of Türkiye’s wartime heritage. This restoration project not only brings to light important historical artifacts but also provides an immersive experience that honors the bravery of the Mehmetcik soldiers.

As these positions stand as monuments to the past, they offer valuable insights into the heroic defense of Canakkale and continue to inspire respect and admiration for Türkiye’s rich history.