We proudly celebrate the 100 years we have accomplished, following the footsteps of the architect of our Republic, Atatürk. The first century of the Republic has not only bestowed upon us numerous achievements and valuable names but also left behind a valuable architectural legacy.
In the century since the proclamation of the Republic, numerous architectural works have emerged in Türkiye that bear traces of both global trends of the time and our country's resurrection story. The architectural works built during the Republic era and the structures that define the character of cities also narrate the story of the country's modernization process.
One of the most striking examples of the Republic's architectural legacy is undoubtedly Anıtkabir. This monument rising in the heart of Ankara, is a symbol of respect for Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of our Republic. Designed in the Neoclassical style of the Second National Architectural Movement by architects Emin Onat and Orhan Arda, the structure carries traces of the Hittite, Greek, Seljuk, and Ottoman cultures that have ruled the lands of present-day Türkiye throughout history. Beyond being just a monument, it is considered one of the most iconic structures in Ankara and Türkiye.
Another significant part of our architectural heritage is the Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM), which opened in 1969 with the name Istanbul Cultural Palace, as the world's fourth-largest art center of its time. Designed by architect Hayati Tabanlıoğlu, the building made its mark on Istanbul's cultural and artistic life. A symbol of the Republic era in Türkiye, the cultural center remained closed from 2008 to 2018 and was demolished in February 2018 for reconstruction. The newly constructed building was designed by Murat Tabanlıoğlu, the son of the original project's architect Hayati Tabanlıoğlu, and opened on October 29, 2021. Located in the
heart of Istanbul, in Taksim, AKM continues to reflect on Türkiye's cultural mosaic with its architecture, history, and the artistic events it hosts.
The Milli Reasürans Building, bearing Şandor Hadi and Sevinç Hadi's signatures, is another prominent example of modern Turkish architecture. Located in the Şişli district of Istanbul, in Teşvikiye, this building adds a unique touch to the city's silhouette by combining aesthetics and functionality.
Considered one of the significant works of modern Turkish architecture, the Istanbul Manifaturacılar Çarşısı (İMÇ) was built in two phases. The first phase of the project was completed in 1967, and the second phase in 1968. Initially serving carpet and upholstery shops and manufacturers, it transformed into a record market in the 1980s. The market contains panels by eight contemporary Turkish artists symbolizing Istanbul and trade, making it an open-air museum.
When examining Türkiye's architectural heritage, these and similar milestones build a bridge between the past and the present, carrying a cultural accumulation to future generations. These architectural works allow us to understand not only the past 100 years but also the rich architectural culture and evolution of Türkiye. It is our responsibility to pass this heritage to future generations today, and further enhance it.
