Gallipoli

Gallipoli (Turkish: Gelibolu) is a peninsula in northwestern Turkey, best known for the Gallipoli Campaign during World War I. It’s now a national park and major site of remembrance, especially for Turkey, Australia, and New Zealand.

What happened here:

• In 1915, Allied forces (mainly British, French, Australian, and New Zealand troops) launched a campaign to seize control of the Dardanelles Strait, aiming to open a supply route to Russia.

• The campaign turned into a brutal 9-month trench warfare stalemate against fierce Ottoman resistance, led in part by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, who later founded modern Turkey.

• The Allies eventually withdrew. The campaign cost over 100,000 lives and had a lasting impact on national identities, especially for Turkey, Australia, and New Zealand.

What to see today:

• Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park: A peaceful, well-preserved area with memorials, trenches, and cemeteries.

• ANZAC Cove: The site where Australian and New Zealand troops landed. It’s a key place of pilgrimage, especially on ANZAC Day (April 25).

• Lone Pine Cemetery and Canakkale Martyrs’ Memorial: Two of the most prominent memorials, one honoring ANZACs, the other Turkish soldiers.

• Original trenches and war relics: Still visible in places like Quinn’s Post and The Nek.

The vibe: Quiet, solemn, and deeply moving. Gallipoli isn’t about tourist crowds — it’s about remembrance and reflection.

Best time to visit: April 25 (ANZAC Day) for ceremonies, or spring/fall for cooler weather and peaceful touring.