Captain Agâh Efendi Martyrs' Memorial

Captain Agâh Efendi was born in 1898 in Mutlu village, Bayburt province. Serving as an officer on various fronts of the Turkish War of Independence, Agâh Efendi was martyred on August 26, 1922, the day the Great Offensive began, in the Kurtkaya area, the only passage leading to Kocatepe, along with Lieutenant Feyzullah and 100 Mehmetçiks. This journey from Bayburt to the heart of Anatolia ensured his name was etched into Turkish history. The martyrs' memorial, where mayors and state officials occasionally pay special visits, also holds a special meaning for the people of Bayburt.

While the martyrs' memorial is open every day of the year, the most meaningful time to visit is around August 26, Victory Day. On this date, official ceremonies, including moments of silence and wreath-laying, are held as part of events such as the 102nd and 103rd anniversaries of the Great Offensive. Spring and autumn months offer more favorable weather conditions for visiting; in mid-summer, temperatures on the Kocatepe plateau may be cooler compared to the city center. In winter, it is advisable to check for information in advance regarding the possibility of snow and road closures in the region.

To reach the martyrs' memorial from Afyonkarahisar city center, private vehicle is the most practical way. Follow the signs indicating the direction of Kocatepe, and after approximately 12 kilometers, you will reach Büyük Kalecik Town, and from there, the Kurtkaya area. Since it is within the borders of the Commander-in-Chief Historical National Park, the martyrs' memorial can be easily reached by following the directional signs after entering the park. Public transportation options are quite limited, so renting a car from the city center or joining local tour operators' Kocatepe excursions would be a safer choice.

The Captain Agâh Efendi Martyrs' Memorial can be visited along with other historical points within the Commander-in-Chief Historical National Park on a single route. A route starting from Afyonkarahisar city center, first visiting the Kocatepe Monument, then the Great Offensive Martyrs' Memorial, and finally this martyrs' memorial in the Kurtkaya area, is highly efficient for understanding the historical integrity of the region. The points located along the Kocatepe Victory Road route allow visitors to feel the historical struggle step by step, starting from Şuhut and ending at Kocatepe. It is advisable to allocate half a day to a full day for a visit covering all these points.

The Kurtkaya area offers an environment suitable for photography, both historically and naturally. The martyrs' memorial monument and burial ground provide impressive shots, especially with soft light in the morning hours. The panoramic view of the passage leading to Kocatepe highlights the strategic importance of the region, creating a strong compositional background. Photos taken during commemoration ceremonies carry both documentary and emotional value. Wide-angle lenses can be preferred to capture the entire natural landscape surrounding the martyrs' memorial area.

The martyrs' memorial is a sensitive area of military and national importance; a respectful and quiet demeanor is expected during the visit. Since the area is within the Commander-in-Chief Historical National Park, it is useful to check in advance with the relevant institution whether an entrance fee is charged at the park entrance. In winter months, snow and ice may occur on the road to the Kurtkaya area; visitors planning to visit during this period are advised to follow current road conditions. Since there are no accommodation or dining facilities in the immediate vicinity, it is advisable to bring water and snacks with you. Especially around August 26, the area may become crowded due to official ceremonies.

There are no food and beverage establishments in the Kurtkaya area where the martyrs' memorial is located. For the nearest options, you need to return to Afyonkarahisar city center. Afyon stands out as one of Turkey's most established gastronomy cities. World-famous Afyon clotted cream (kaymak) and sucuk (spicy sausage) can be found in every corner of the city. Turkish delight varieties and pişi (fried dough) are also must-try delicacies. Village breakfast places in the city center can be an ideal starting point for those leaving early in the morning.