Gündoğdu Meydanı (Gündoğdu Square), Izmir

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Gündoğdu Meydanı (Gündoğdu Square), Izmir

Gündoğdu Meydanı (Gündoğdu Square), Izmir

Gündoğdu Square, situated between the neighborhoods of Alsancak and Konak in Izmir, holds a significant position as the center-point of the Kordon esplanade. Located within one of the city's most famous parks, Gündoğdu Square has become a major meeting point for people from all walks of life. The square serves as a focal point for political rallies, demonstrations, and events, with its open space providing ample room for gatherings of various sizes.

At the heart of Gündoğdu Square stands the Tree of the Republic Statue, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Republic of Turkey. This iconic statue serves as a symbol of national pride and celebrates the country's historical milestones.

The creation of Gündoğdu Square and the Kordon esplanade was part of a transformational project initiated in 2000. Originally intended to extend a 6-lane highway from Liman Avenue to central Konak and further, the plan faced strong opposition from many residents. Ultimately, the idea was modified, and the esplanade was converted into a park, providing a much-needed green space for the city.

Construction of the park and Gündoğdu Square was completed in 1999, and the area was officially opened to the public on 15th June 2000. In 2003, the mayor, Ahmet Piriştina, commissioned the design of a commemorative statue for the 80th anniversary of the Republic. Renowned artist Ferit Özşen was chosen to create the Tree of the Republic, which now stands proudly in the square, a testament to the country's progress and unity.

Gündoğdu Square has witnessed numerous political rallies, attracting Prime Ministers and party leaders, as well as political protests such as the 2007 Republic Protests. Similarly to Taksim Square in Istanbul, Gündoğdu Square serves as the primary gathering point in Izmir for the annual May Day celebrations, where people come together to celebrate and advocate for workers' rights and social justice.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Izmir. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Gündoğdu Meydanı (Gündoğdu Square) on Map

Sight Name: Gündoğdu Meydanı (Gündoğdu Square)
Sight Location: Izmir, Turkey (See walking tours in Izmir)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Izmir, Turkey

Create Your Own Walk in Izmir

Create Your Own Walk in Izmir

Creating your own self-guided walk in Izmir is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Izmir Introduction Walking Tour

Izmir Introduction Walking Tour

A major city port on the western coastline of Turkey, Izmir is a city of enchanting contrasts. With a lineage that traverses millennia, this jewel of the Aegean Sea beckons travelers with its storied past and cosmopolitan vibrancy.

The city was founded by the Aeolians (one of the four major ancient Greek tribes) around the 3rd millennium BC and was later inhabited by various civilizations,...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
Alsancak Walking Tour

Alsancak Walking Tour

Sparkling like a gem in the Aegean sun, the vibrant Alsancak neighborhood in the historic heart of Izmir exudes an irresistible charm that beckons both seasoned travelers and curious wanderers alike. In Ottoman times, the area was named "La Punta" (which is the Italian for "the cape") and was part of the city settled by the upper middle class.

From the spacious GündoÄŸdu...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles