Published on
November 10, 2025
Türkiye has honored the enduring legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk with the official reopening of the Atatürk House in Thessaloniki. This historic restoration serves not only as a tribute to the founder of modern Turkey but also as a powerful symbol of unity and cooperation between Greece and Türkiye. The house, now a museum, stands as a testament to shared history, cultural ties, and the ongoing commitment to fostering strong diplomatic relations between the two nations.
On Sunday, Türkiye’s Culture and Tourism Minister officially inaugurated the restored Atatürk House in Thessaloniki, a city located along the Thermaic Gulf of the Aegean Sea in Greece. The opening of this significant cultural site is not just a moment of reflection on the legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye, but also an opportunity to reaffirm Türkiye’s ongoing commitment to its founding principles. The Minister’s speech underlined that honoring Atatürk is a way of safeguarding the republic’s values and securing a prosperous future for the nation.
Atatürk’s birthplace in Thessaloniki, now restored and preserved, is seen not merely as a historic building but as the birthplace of the republic itself, a place where the first steps toward the modern Turkish state were taken. The opening ceremony was a solemn moment, recognizing the deep respect and gratitude that the Turkish people hold for Atatürk’s role in shaping the nation. The Minister reflected on the profound significance of the site, emphasizing that it represents a milestone in the journey of Türkiye from its Ottoman past to its present as a republic, committed to democratic values, independence, and national unity.
In his address, the Minister emphasized Türkiye’s dedication to the preservation of its cultural heritage, pointing to the restoration of the Atatürk House in Thessaloniki as a shining example of this commitment. He noted that Türkiye continues to take active steps to protect and restore landmarks of historical and cultural importance both within its borders and abroad. The Atatürk House stands as a powerful symbol of this broader effort, serving as a reminder of the country’s rich history and the importance of preserving cultural monuments for future generations.
The restoration of the Atatürk House in Thessaloniki also carries a diplomatic message. In the Minister’s words, the house is not only a historical site for Türkiye but also an important symbol of peace and cooperation between Türkiye and Greece. He echoed the sentiments of Türkiye’s leadership, particularly President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who has consistently advocated for strengthening ties between the two nations, especially in areas of mutual cultural and historical significance. The Minister stressed that the Atatürk House should serve as a beacon of peace, fostering goodwill and positive relations between the neighboring countries.
Atatürk’s legacy transcends national borders, and the house in Thessaloniki serves as a powerful reminder of the ideals and principles that he set forth for Türkiye. The Minister highlighted how Atatürk’s commitment to the values of democracy, independence, and freedom laid the foundation for the modern Turkish state. Under the current leadership, Türkiye continues to uphold these values, focusing on strengthening its democratic institutions, promoting independence, and ensuring freedom for all citizens. The Atatürk House is a physical manifestation of these ideals, serving as a testament to the vision of a free and democratic Türkiye.
The opening ceremony of the Atatürk House also served as a reminder of the enduring ties between Türkiye and Greece, two countries with a shared history and complex relationship. The Minister expressed that the restoration of this historical site offers an opportunity for both nations to reflect on their shared past and work together towards a brighter, more peaceful future. By preserving this important landmark, both nations can recognize their common heritage and the role that Atatürk played in shaping the modern world, particularly in the context of the Turkish Republic’s formation.
Greece’s involvement in the restoration process and the official opening ceremony also underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between neighboring countries to preserve cultural landmarks and promote good neighborly relations. The Greek Deputy Tourism Minister highlighted this point, stating that the opening of the Atatürk House represents a significant opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations between Greece and Türkiye. She emphasized the importance of using such cultural initiatives as platforms for fostering friendship and cooperation, particularly in areas where both nations share historical and cultural ties.
The Greek official further remarked that the restoration of the Atatürk House would not only serve as a symbol of the strong cultural connections between the two nations but also as a practical way to promote tourism and cultural exchange. Visitors from both Türkiye and Greece, as well as international tourists, will be able to experience the historical significance of the site, learn about Atatürk’s life and legacy, and reflect on the shared history that binds the two nations together.
This restoration also highlights the growing importance of cultural diplomacy in international relations. By investing in the preservation and promotion of historical sites, Türkiye is demonstrating its commitment to fostering positive relationships with its neighbors and the international community at large. The Atatürk House stands as a symbol of this broader strategy, showcasing the potential for cultural sites to play a role in building bridges between nations, promoting peace, and encouraging mutual understanding.
The opening of the Atatürk House in Thessaloniki is more than just the restoration of a building; it is a powerful statement about Türkiye’s commitment to its history, its cultural heritage, and its role in shaping the future of the region. It is a reminder that honoring the past is not only about preserving physical landmarks but also about reinforcing the values that these landmarks represent. As Türkiye continues to build on Atatürk’s legacy, the Atatürk House will stand as a lasting symbol of the nation’s dedication to democracy, independence, and peace.
Türkiye has officially reopened the restored Atatürk House in Thessaloniki, honoring Atatürk’s legacy while symbolizing the strong unity and cooperation between Greece and Türkiye. This event underscores the shared history and commitment to fostering diplomatic ties.
By restoring and celebrating this important site, Türkiye is reaffirming its commitment to building a future based on the principles of freedom, democracy, and cooperation—both within its borders and with its neighbors. The Atatürk House in Thessaloniki will serve as a powerful symbol of these ideals for generations to come, offering a place of reflection, inspiration, and shared understanding for all who visit.
