The Commander-in-Chief Historical National Park, established on November 8, 1981, serves as a significant tribute to Turkey’s War of Independence and its rich historical and cultural heritage. This large national park, which covers 42,183 hectares and traverses the province boundaries of Afyonkarahisar, Kütahya, and Uşak, is situated in the Central Anatolia Region The main goal of the park is to preserve the historical and cultural assets connected to the key conflicts and choices taken during the Turkish War of Independence, a turning point in the history of the country. Numerous martyrs’ cemeteries, monuments, and museum honoring those who battled and gave their lives for the sovereignty of the nation abound here.

Two primary components of the Commander-in- Chief Historical National Park correspond to important sites that were vital for the War of Independence. Situated southwest of Afyonkarahisar, the first section—known as the Kocatepe section—features the Kocatepe Monument, a well-known site honoring the historic events that took place here. For those trying to grasp the strategic relevance of the conflicts influencing Turkey’s path of independence, the Kocatepe part serves as the center of attention. Here guests may learn about the important military decisions taken during the battle as well as the strategic importance of the site in the greater framework of the war.

Spaced over various districts, including Sinanpaşa in Afyonkarahisar, Altıntaş and Dumlupınar in Kütahya, and Banaz in Uşak, the second component of the national park is Dumlupınar. Numerous significant sites connected to the War of Independence abound in this area, including monuments and cemeteries honoring many martyrs. The spot where Mustafa Kemal Pasha, subsequently known as Atatürk, famously issued the order, “Armies, your first target is the Mediterranean, forward!” is among the most important sites in the Dumlupınar sector. Takmak hamlet, in the Eşme area of Uşak, hosted this historic event. The order marked a clear change in the war and set the stage for the Turkish troops’ final triumph. Thus, the Dumlupınar part has tremendous historical significance since it marks the turning point of the War of Independence and shows the will of the Turkish government to guarantee the future of the country.

Visitors can tour several martyrs’ cemeteries, the last resting sites of those who gave their lives in the conflicts during the War of Independence, all around the park. These graves provide as a sober reminder of the costs paid by innumerable people who battled for Turkey’s sovereignty and freedom. The memorials strewn around the park honor these dead heroes even more, giving guests chances to consider the weight of the fight and the legacy left by those who helped the country to become free.

Apart from the cemeteries and memorials, the national park has a museum providing a whole picture of the War of Independence and the function of Commander-in- Chief Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Rich in relics, records, and displays covering the events before the War of Independence, military tactics used during the conflict, and the long-lasting effects of the triumph on Turkey’s political scene, the museum is a treasure store. It offers insightful analysis of Atatürk’s leadership style and the will of the Turkish people to overcome obstacles in ensuring the independence of their nation.

Not only a haven for contemplation, the Commander-in- Chief Historical National Park is a living tribute to the resiliency and patriotism that distinguished the War of Independence. The park is a site of commemoration as well as a teaching tool drawing guests from all throughout Turkey and beyond. The park’s importance is increased even further by the region’s natural beauty—rolling hills, large fields, and breathtaking views. Explore the wide settings that previously surrounded some of the most significant events in Turkish history.