Martyrs commemorated at the Turkish Cemetery in Piraeus
A commemoration ceremony was held at the Turkish Cemetery in Piraeus to mark March 18 Martyrs' Remembrance Day and the 110th anniversary of the Gallipoli Naval Victory.
The ceremony was attended by Turkey's Ambassador to Athens, Çağatay Erciyes, Consul General of Athens-Piraeus, Işıl Işık Civelik, military attachés, and members of the diplomatic mission. It began with a moment of silence in front of the martyrs' memorial to honor those who lost their lives.
Ambassador Erciyes’ Speech
In his speech, Ambassador Erciyes highlighted the historical significance of the Turkish Cemetery in Piraeus, stating that it was originally established in 1859 as a Muslim cemetery for Turks who passed away in Athens and Piraeus. He recalled that in 1890, the Piraeus Municipality transferred its ownership to the Ottoman Empire.
He further explained how the cemetery gained the status of a martyrdom, as many Turkish soldiers who were captured during the Balkan Wars, World War I, and the Turkish War of Independence were brought to Athens and later buried there.
"Despite this, for many years, the ownership of our Athens-Piraeus Martyrs' Cemetery remained 'uncertain' in Greek land registry records. After a long legal process, we officially registered its ownership on behalf of our state last year. We take great pride and satisfaction in this achievement."
Emphasizing the heroic resistance of the Turkish nation during the Gallipoli Campaign, Erciyes described the battle as a symbol of resilience and sacrifice in the face of adversity.
"The Gallipoli Campaign represents the legendary struggle and bravery of the Turkish nation, despite facing immense hardships. Our Republic’s founder, Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, emerged on the stage of history in Gallipoli with his military genius and exceptional leadership, altering the fate of a nation."
He also underscored the determination and faith of the Turkish people in defending their homeland:
"What we call the ‘Spirit of Gallipoli’ symbolizes the belief, faith, and perseverance of our great nation, proving that we can overcome any challenge. The Turkish people's fight for independence in Gallipoli also inspired many oppressed nations around the world."
Highlighting Türkiye’s commitment to peace and cooperation with former adversaries, Erciyes noted that Turkish diplomacy continues to work for a world guided by peace, stability, prosperity, and development.
Following the speeches, white and red carnations were placed on the graves of the martyrs in remembrance of their sacrifice.
History of the Turkish Cemetery in Piraeus
Originally founded in 1859 as a Muslim cemetery, the Piraeus Turkish Cemetery was officially transferred to the Ottoman Empire by the Piraeus Municipality on March 24, 1890. Over the years, it became a martyrs' cemetery, as many Ottoman and Turkish soldiers who were taken prisoner during the Balkan Wars, World War I, and the Turkish War of Independence were laid to rest there.
