So, you've arrived in Samsun. Where should you begin exploring this pearl of the Black Sea? If you're looking for an iconic spot that both reflects the city's spirit and will look fantastic on your social media feed, I have one answer for you: the Monument of Honor. Yes, the one we all know as the Atatürk Monument! This is the place you should write at the very top of your things to do in Samsun list. But wait, don't just think, "it's just a statue." This monument is not merely a bronze structure; it's the story of a city's gratitude, a nation's rebirth, and an adventurous journey from Vienna to Samsun. Come on, let's discover the secrets of this majestic monument together.

See the statue of Atatürk on a rearing horse, the symbol of Samsun

As you approach the Monument of Honor, the first thing that will strike you is undoubtedly the statue's size and dynamism. Atatürk, on a rearing horse, majestically reaches for the sky. This monument represents the honor of a city and a nation, and its story is as impressive as the monument itself.

The idea for this monument was first proposed by the governor of Samsun at the time, Kâzım Pasha. However, there's a very special detail that sets this monument apart from others: its costs were covered entirely by the people of Samsun. Yes, you heard that right! The residents of Samsun stepped up to bestow this honor upon their city, which witnessed the first step of the National Struggle, and gifted this work to the city by raising a significant sum of $37,000 in the currency of the time. Therefore, the monument symbolizes not only a leader but also the loyalty of a people who stood by their leader.

So who created this magnificent work? The monument was designed by the Austrian sculptor Heinrich Krippel, who had previously created important works like the Victory Monument in Ankara. The bronze casting of the statue was carried out in Vienna between 1928 and 1931, in exactly 32 pieces. These pieces were loaded onto a German ship and reached Samsun on October 15, 1931, after an adventurous journey. There was even a small hiccup with customs, but thankfully the issue was resolved, and the monument was inaugurated with a grand ceremony on January 15, 1932.

When you look at the monument more closely, you'll notice that every detail carries a meaning. The statue, which reaches a total height of 8.85 meters with its pedestal, depicts Atatürk standing tall in his marshal's uniform. The determined expression on his face and his gaze fixed westward, far into the distance, convey both the resolve of a victory and hope for the future. His left hand firmly grasping the horse's reins signifies power and control, while his right hand reaching for his sword, as sculptor Krippel himself stated, expresses "the power of Turkishness". Don't miss the reliefs on the sides of the pedestal! On one side, you see the people carrying ammunition, and on the other, the peasant, the city dweller, the old, and the young, hand in hand with Atatürk. These reliefs are the most beautiful proof that the War of Independence was won not just on the battlefield, but with the entire nation standing shoulder to shoulder.

Relax in Atatürk Park, where the monument is located

After learning the story and meaning of that majestic monument, there's nothing like taking a breather and enjoying the historical atmosphere. The Monument of Honor is located right in the heart of Atatürk Park, one of the city's most central and vibrant spots. This park holds the distinction of being one of Samsun's first public recreational areas and has stood like a green oasis in the middle of the city for years.

Atatürk Park is not just a place with trees and benches. It's a meeting point where Samsun's social life flows and where history and the present are intertwined. When you see the elderly uncles sitting in the shadow of the monument, children running around, and young people chatting with their friends, you better understand how this monument has become a part of the city.

Find yourself a bench, maybe grab a simit from a nearby vendor, and gaze at the monument. As you watch the life revolving around the statue, you will both feel the rhythm of the city and better digest the profound history you've just learned. This is the perfect place to take a short break on your Samsun trip and recharge your energy.

Visit the nearby First Step Monument

After resting and gathering your energy in Atatürk Park, how about a short walk to complete the story of the National Struggle? While the Monument of Honor represents the symbolic beginning of the struggle, the nearby First Step Monument marks the actual spot where that historic moment took place.

You might ask, "Why are two monuments so close?" The answer lies in the city's history. The pier where Atatürk disembarked from the Bandırma Ferry and stepped ashore on May 19, 1919, was left inland from the current coastline after the sea was filled in during the port construction in 1959. This monument was erected to show us the exact location of that historic pier.

Created by sculptor Hakkı Atamalı between 1981 and 1982, the monument has a different composition from the Monument of Honor. Here, Atatürk is not depicted alone but with his comrades-in-arms. This design emphasizes that the struggle was a team effort, initiated with a spirit of solidarity. The statues of youth at both ends of the monument symbolize that this struggle is entrusted to the Turkish youth. After the epic and singular hero figure at the Monument of Honor, seeing this collective spirit at the First Step Monument will help you grasp the meaning of May 19th in a much more holistic way.

While You're Here: Alternative Places to Visit Nearby

By visiting the Monument of Honor and the First Step Monument, you have completed the two most important stops on your National Struggle route in Samsun. But the story doesn't end here! Since you've delved so deep into history, you can enhance your trip with a few more significant spots.

Just a few minutes' walk from the monuments, the Gazi Museum is the Mıntıka Palace Hotel where Atatürk stayed when he first arrived in Samsun. Walking through those rooms will feel like touching history. Afterwards, with a pleasant walk along the coast or a short trip, you can visit the an exact replica of the ship that brought Atatürk and his comrades to Samsun. By combining these three points, you will have an unforgettable experience of the beginning of the National Struggle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there a fee to visit the Monument of Honor? No, the Monument of Honor is located within the public Atatürk Park and is completely free to visit. You can see and photograph it at any time of the day.

How can I get to the Monument of Honor by public transport? The monument is in the very center of Samsun, so transportation is very easy. If you use the tram, you can get off at the Cumhuriyet Meydanı (Republic Square) stop and walk to the park in a few minutes. Additionally, many of the city's main bus lines, such as 19, E1, and E5, pass by stops very close to the monument.

Who is the sculptor of the monument and why is he important? The sculptor of the monument is the Austrian artist Heinrich Krippel, who created many important works in Turkey during that period. Krippel's work is considered very valuable not only because it is a physical depiction of Atatürk, but also because it immortalized the Turkish nation's determination for liberation, fearlessness, and strength in bronze.

Bibliography For more detailed and official information on the subject, you can visit the relevant page of the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Culture and Tourism: https://samsun.ktb.gov.tr/TR-216768/.