A Historic Turning Point here in Alanya

The visit of Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Republic of Turkey, to Alanya and his decisions that changed the city's destiny became an important turning point in local history. Atatürk, who visited the city in 1935, changed the city's centuries-old name from Alaiye to its current name "Alanya." This historic visit and name change played a major role in shaping modern Alanya's identity.

From Alaiye to Alanya: The Historical Process
Alanya's historical names reflect the city's rich cultural heritage. Known as Korakesium in ancient times and Kalanoros during the Byzantine period, the city began to be called Alaiye in the 13th century when Anatolian Seljuk ruler Alaaddin Keykubat I (1200-1237) captured the castle. This name was derived from Sultan Alaaddin's name.

After the name Alaiye was used for approximately 700 years, a change came to the agenda during the Republican period. The naming of Alanya was realized in 1933 with the signature of the cabinet of that time and was published in the Official Gazette numbered 2451.

The Telegraph Error and Afet İnan's Role
There are various accounts about the origin of the name change. According to the most common narrative, during his 1935 visit, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk changed the letters 'i' and 'e' in 'Alaiye' in the new alphabet, determining the name as Alanya. This change is said to have originated from a telegraph written incorrectly in 1933.

According to another account, when Atatürk was inspecting the Mediterranean coasts in 1931, he anchored offshore and sent a telegraph, and the name change came to the agenda with the suggestions of Afet İnan, who spent part of her childhood in the district. The name that locals pronounced as "Ala'ya" took the form "Alanya" during the formalization process.

Atatürk's Message to the People of Alanya

Thank You Telegraph and Its Historical Importance
The thank you telegraph that Atatürk sent after his Alanya visit is one of the important documents displayed in the museum. This telegraph that Atatürk sent to the people of Alanya after his visit stands as an example of his thoughtfulness.

Although there were some discussions due to his departure from Alanya taking place in a short time, Atatürk clearly expressed his feelings with this telegraph. The telegraph reads: "During the few hours I spent when I came to Alanya, I was very pleased and impressed by the affection and hospitality shown by the respected people of Alanya."

Atatürk House Museum
Today, for those who want to follow Atatürk's traces in Alanya, the most important stop is the Atatürk House Museum. This museum both keeps Atatürk's memories alive and reflects traditional Alanya living culture.

The museum displays photographs, documents, and belongings of Atatürk, as well as ethnographic artifacts that introduce traditional Alanya house architecture and living culture. The museum, which presents an example of a classic Alanya house, offers visitors the opportunity to discover the city's history and culture.

Commemoration Events and Cultural Heritage
In Alanya, every year on February 18, Atatürk's arrival in the city is commemorated with various events. Atatürk's visit to Alanya is celebrated annually on its anniversary with various events centered around the Atatürk House and Museum.

Additionally, Atatürk's memory is kept alive through sporting events such as the Alanya Atatürk Half Marathon. These events demonstrate Alanya's respect and devotion to Atatürk.

Atatürk's Visit to Alanya

February 18, 1935: The Historic Meeting
Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, departing from Istanbul on the Ege steamship, began his journey on February 16, 1935, with the Zafer Torpedo off Çeşme. He honored the district by visiting Alanya on February 18, 1935, after signing and approving the name change during his journey. This visit was recorded as an important day in Alanya's history.

During the visit, Atatürk stayed in the city for a short time and then proceeded to Antalya. This visit was Atatürk's third visit to the Antalya region and was carried out by sea.

The House Where Atatürk Stayed
During his Alanya visit, Atatürk stayed in a historic house that now serves as a museum. The Atatürk House Museum, after the death of its original owner M. Tevfik Azakoğlu, passed to his heir Rıfat Azakoğlu and was transferred to the treasury by Rıfat Azakoğlu on June 8, 1981, with the condition that it be used as the Atatürk House and Museum.

This historic house is an important cultural asset that brings together Alanya's traditional architectural features with Atatürk's memories. The museum displays Atatürk's personal belongings and ethnographic artifacts reflecting Alanya culture.

Role in Alanya's Transformation

Reflection of Republican Values
Atatürk's visit to Alanya and the new name he gave to the city is not just a name change. This change became a symbol of transformation reflecting the new identity and values of the Republic of Turkey.

Alanya developed rapidly during the Republican period and became an international destination especially with tourism gaining importance after the 1960s. Today, the city has a modern and contemporary structure in accordance with Atatürk's vision.

Tourism and Cultural Opening
The importance Atatürk gave to Alanya and the name contributed to the city's international recognition. Today, Alanya is a cosmopolitan city visited by millions of tourists annually, where different cultures come together.

This transformation is a local reflection of Atatürk's ideal of bringing Turkey to the level of contemporary civilizations. Alanya embodies Atatürk's vision as a city that both preserves its historical heritage and remains open to the changes required by the modern world.

Transportation and Visit to Atatürk House Museum
The Atatürk House Museum, located in the center of Alanya, is in an easily accessible location. The museum's opening and closing hours may vary according to the season, so it would be beneficial to check current information before visiting.

Entry to the museum is free and offers visitors the opportunity to discover Alanya's traditional house architecture and Atatürk's contributions to the city. A visit of approximately 30-45 minutes will be sufficient to see all sections of the museum.

Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Atatürk House Museum is during spring and autumn months when tourist density is low. Additionally, visiting the museum during the commemoration events held on February 18 can be a special experience to feel the atmosphere of Atatürk's arrival in Alanya.

This special bond between Alanya and Atatürk is important for seeing the local reflections of the founding philosophy and values of the Republic of Turkey. Visitors to Alanya can embark on a historical journey by following the traces of Atatürk in the city and witness the formation process of modern Turkey.