The Presidency Atatürk Museum Mansion is located within the Çankaya Presidential Complex in Ankara. It was originally a country house gifted by the Ankara Municipality on May 30, 1921, to provide Mustafa Kemal Atatürk with a more suitable working environment. Initially a small rectangular-plan house, the building was extensively expanded by the prominent architect Vedat Tek following Atatürk’s marriage to Latife Hanım in 1923. Additions made in 1924 gave the mansion its present features, including an octagonal tower, a glass-enclosed entrance, and a study room.
Presidency Atatürk Museum Mansion(Turkiye Culture Portal)
Use by Atatürk and as the Presidential Residence
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk used the mansion as both a residence and a working space from 1921 to 1932. In this capacity, the Çankaya Mansion served as the first official presidential residence of the Republic of Türkiye.
Conversion into a Museum and Restoration
The mansion was converted into a museum in 1950 and opened to the public. Between 2002 and 2007, it underwent extensive restoration. The 2004 survey and renewal works strengthened the floors and walls to ensure structural durability. Following the restoration, the Atatürk Museum Mansion reopened to visitors in 2007.
Architectural Features and Exhibition Sections
The museum includes several sections: Windbreak (Rüzgarlık), Entrance Hall, Guest Reception Room (Green Hall), Çankaya Table, Ambassador Reception Room, Guest Bedroom, Upper Floor Hall, Library, Study, Bedroom, and Exhibition Hall.
Exhibited Items
Exhibits include a youthful photo of Atatürk’s mother Zübeyde Hanım, Atatürk’s 1931 parliamentary certificate, dining sets with “GMK” (Gazi Mustafa Kemal) or “KA” (Kemal Atatürk) monograms, a billiard table, and various personal belongings. The former kitchen and laundry areas have been converted into exhibition spaces.
Visitor Information
The museum is located on Ziya-ü Rahman Street. It is closed on Mondays and can be visited on weekdays by appointment via phone or email, free of charge. On weekends, national holidays, and November 10 (Atatürk Memorial Day), it is open for walk-in visits from 13:00 to 17:00. Weekday visitors enter through Gate 7 of the Çankaya Presidential Complex; weekend visitors enter through Gate 5.
Historical Significance
The Atatürk Museum Mansion is not only a residence but also a historical center where critical decisions of the War of Independence and early Republican reforms were made. Atatürk’s years spent here mark a pivotal period in the formation of the Republic of Türkiye.
Cultural and Educational Role
The museum offers visitors an engaging experience of Atatürk’s life. Guided tours provide insight into the early Republican period through Atatürk’s personal belongings and living spaces, making the museum a significant resource for historical and cultural education.
