Çataldere Cemetery is located within the borders of Eceabat district of Çanakkale, in the Arıburnu region of the Gallipoli Peninsula. Situated next to the Yarbay Hüseyin Avni Bey Cemetery, the site lies in a valley accessible by stone stairs. Due to its location within the valley, the cemetery held a strategic position and was part of an important frontline during the war. Today, visits to the cemetery allow visitors to better understand the challenges and geographical impacts experienced during the battles.
Promotional Video (Çanakkale Historical Area Directorate)
Historical Background and Military Importance
The Çataldere region witnessed one of the most critical stages of the Çanakkale Land Battles. Particularly between August 6–10, 1915, ANZAC forces’ attempts to capture Conkbayırı met with fierce resistance in this area. The 16th and 19th Divisions of the 5th Army Command established significant defensive lines in the Çataldere region and successfully halted the enemy advance. Many Ottoman soldiers were martyred in these clashes, and the cemetery was built in their memory.
Architectural Structure and Monumental Features
At the center of Çataldere Cemetery stands a monument built from cut stone and marble. The monument bears inscriptions in Ottoman Turkish and modern Turkish, recording the names of the fallen soldiers. Spanning approximately 2,000 square meters, the site includes benches and shaded areas for visitors. Around the monument, maps showing the course of the battle and informative panels are placed. At the entrance to the cemetery, a plaque emphasizes the significance of the struggle fought in this region.
(An informational text found at the cemetery – Çanakkale Historical Area Directorate)
Burial Structure and Number of Martyrs
In Çataldere Cemetery, many soldiers from the Ottoman army’s 1st, 5th, 6th, 27th, and 57th Regiments are buried. These units played key roles on the Arıburnu front and witnessed the most intense moments of the conflict. Many of the gravestones are symbolic, as the number of unidentified martyrs is recorded as 2,835. This highlights both the harsh conditions of the defense carried out with limited resources and the intensity of the battles.
Monument and Site Arrangement
The cemetery area was renovated and reopened for visits in 2006 by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry of the Republic of Türkiye. The monuments within the site were built in memory of the martyrs. The cemetery also contains symbolic graves and a ceremonial area. The arrangement process aimed to preserve historical memory and raise awareness among visitors. Informational boards in the monument area provide detailed knowledge about the historical significance of the site.
Visiting Conditions and Transportation Information
To reach Çataldere Cemetery, one must follow the road from Eceabat town center towards Kilitbahir. The site is located about 5 km from Kilitbahir village, along an asphalt road. In addition to private vehicle access, it can also be visited via tours departing from Çanakkale. The cemetery is open year-round to both local and foreign visitors. It becomes a significant gathering point during the ANZAC Day memorial ceremonies held annually on April 25.
