The nn Battles Headquarters House, a historic building in Eskişehir's nn district used as headquarters by smet nn during the War of Independence, has been open as a free museum since 2001.
This building in smetpaşa Neighborhood, nn district of Eskişehir, is where the most critical decisions of the Turkish War of Independence were made. Western Front Commander Major General smet nn directed the First and Second nn Battles against the Greek forces from here. This location was chosen to create a suitable point of resistance against the Greek forces attacking from two directions and to halt their advance towards Ankara, becoming the center of decisions that changed the course of the war.
The building was transferred to the Ministry of Culture in 1987 in memory of smet nn and the 80th Anniversary of the nn Victories. After undergoing extensive restoration between 2000-2001, it was opened as a museum on April 1, 2001. The museum exhibits photographs from the nn Battles, front orders from commanders, weapons collected from the battlefield, and military equipment. Visitors emphasize that this is not just a museum, but a place that directly witnessed the establishment process of the Republic of Turkey. Since some visitors have reported finding it closed, be sure to confirm before you go.
Related discoveries: Historical Places, Eskişehir historical places, Nasreddin Hodja's House.
Guide's Note
History and Significance of the Building
The name nn comes from the underground caves (inler) dating back to the Byzantine period. During the most critical period of the War of Independence, this district became the heart of the Western Front. Major General smet nn had to simultaneously manage the Greek forces' two-pronged attack and the rebellion of Çerkez Ethem. The main reason for choosing this building as headquarters was both its strategic location and its suitability for disrupting the enemy's Ankara objective, who had advanced as far as Eskişehir.
The First nn Battle took place in January 1921, and the Second nn Battle in March-April 1921. In both battles, Greek forces were repelled. These victories were turning points that determined the course of the War of Independence; smet Pasha also took his surname from this district. The building was transferred to the Ministry of Culture in 1987 and converted into a museum in 2001.
When to Visit
Weekday mornings are the safest option. There are multiple reports in visitor comments that it is closed on weekends; although there is no official statement, it is practical not to take risks. Before going, call the museum at +90 222 591 2352 or check the nn District Governorship's website.
Spring and autumn months are more comfortable for visiting the district. Eskişehir and its surroundings can be hot in summer; prefer to go between 08:00-10:00.
How to Get There
From Eskişehir city center, drive approximately 25 km west via the D-200 highway to reach the nn district center. It takes about 25-30 minutes by car. The museum is located at smetpaşa Mahallesi, Gl Sokak No:15.
For public transport, there are regular minibus services from Eskişehir bus terminal to nn. The museum is within walking distance from the district center. If you arrive in Eskişehir by train or bus, half a day is sufficient for an nn trip.
What to Eat Nearby
nn district center is a small district; do not expect large restaurant options. There are a few local eateries in the district. On your way back to Eskişehir, you will find a much wider range of dining options in Odunpazarı or the city center.
If you are not planning a long trip, having breakfast in Eskişehir and then going to nn, and having lunch in the city on your return, is a practical plan.
Route Suggestion
The nn Battles Headquarters House is not a daily trip destination on its own, but should be considered as part of an Eskişehir itinerary. Leave Eskişehir in the morning, go to nn, and visit the museum for 40-60 minutes. On your return, you can go to Eskişehir's Odunpazarı district, and then to the Porsuk River bank.
If you are planning a history-focused trip, the Eskişehir Archaeology Museum or Kurşunlu Complex can also be added to the program on the same day.
Photo Spots
The exterior of the building is a simple structure reflecting the architectural texture of the period. The exhibition rooms inside, especially the sections displaying front orders and the weapon collection, are interesting for photography. Since the museum is small, using a wide-angle lens provides an advantage.
The general view of the nn district and shots taken from the hills overlooking the district are good options for photographs that convey the historical context.
Things to Pay Attention To
The most important point is this: multiple visitors report finding the museum closed. One visitor wrote that when they called the municipality, the museum was immediately opened; this indicates that the museum is sometimes left unattended. Be sure to call before you go.
There are strong indications that it is closed on weekends. Planning for weekdays is safer. It would be frustrating to travel 25 km from Eskişehir and find it closed.
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