Seyit Onbaşı Monument

Artillery Corporal Seyit, whose real name was Seyit Ali Çabuk, was born in 1889 in what is now Kocaseyit Village. On March 18, 1915, while serving at the Rumeli Mecidiye Battery, it is rumored that he shouldered an approximately 215-kilogram shell and placed it into the cannon barrel after the crane carrying the ammunition broke down, and this shot hit an Allied battleship. This legendary display of strength made Seyit Onbaşı a symbol of Gallipoli. After the war, Seyit returned to his village, passed away in 1939, and was buried in his birthplace.

While the monument area is open to visitors all year round, spring and autumn months offer the most pleasant periods in terms of both weather conditions and the natural beauty of the village. Commemoration ceremonies are held in the region every year during the March 18 Gallipoli Victory period, and visitor density significantly increases during these dates. For those wishing to avoid crowds, weekday mornings offer a calmer visiting experience.

The monument is located in Kocaseyit Village, Havran district, which is part of Balıkesir province. It is approximately 60 km by road from Balıkesir city center to Havran. The roads from Havran district center to the village are well-maintained and signs are present. A private car is the most practical transportation option; searching for Seyit Onbaşı Anıt Mezarı on Google Maps provides direct navigation. It is also possible to reach the village by taxi or rental car after arriving in Havran by public transport.

The monument area's hilltop location provides a suitable setting for wide-angle shots overlooking the surroundings. Seyit Onbaşı's monumental tomb and statue offer impressive photographs, especially in the morning light. The replicas of ammunition and artillery equipment at the entrance of the exhibition hall also contain interesting details for documentary-style shots. The landscapes reflecting the rural Aegean texture along the road through the village will also please photography enthusiasts.

Since Kocaseyit Village is a small settlement, it is difficult to find comprehensive dining options within the village. Havran district center hosts various restaurants known for their olive oil dishes and the simple flavors of Aegean cuisine. This region of Balıkesir is famous for its olive groves; fresh olives and olive oil products can be considered both for the table and as souvenirs to take home. It is recommended to eat in Havran before your visit.

Seyit Onbaşı Monument can be combined with historical sites along Balıkesir's north-western axis for a full day. In the morning, arrive in Havran and first visit the Terzizade Mansion, which houses the Atatürk and Seyit Onbaşı Museum; then proceed to the monument area in Kocaseyit Village. In the afternoon, take a short walk in Havran's bazaar and purchase local olive oil products. For those with a deep interest in the Gallipoli Campaign, completing this itinerary with a visit to the Gallipoli Battlefields in the following days is highly valuable for contextual integrity.

Since the monument area is on a hilltop and outdoors, it is advisable to bring an outer garment on windy days. Village roads are suitable for vehicle traffic, but narrow sections may be present; careful driving is recommended. Museum hours may vary depending on the season and special days, so it would be beneficial to contact the Havran Tourism Information Office before your visit. As the monumental tomb is a place of religious and national sensitivity, a respectful visiting attitude is expected.