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A HERO REMEMBERED: BODRUM PAYS TRIBUTE TO OTTOMAN NAVAL LEGEND

24.06.2025

In commemoration of the 460th anniversary of the martyrdom of Admiral Turgut Reis (Dragut), Bodrum hosted a two-day remembrance programme filled with cultural events, official ceremonies and strong public participation.

Organized by Bodrum Municipality’s Directorate of Culture and Social Affairs, the memorial events took place on June 22–23 with the aim of honoring one of the most iconic figures in Turkish naval history and introducing his legacy to younger generations.

The programme began on Sunday, June 22, with a historical talk at the Şevket Sabancı Culture & Arts Center, where retired Colonel Tamer Şahin delivered a lecture titled “A Glimpse into 16th-Century Naval History: The Ottoman Empire in the Age of Discovery.” The event attracted municipal officials and members of the public who followed the rich historical discussion with great interest.

On Monday, June 23, the main memorial ceremony took place in front of the Karabağ Turgut Reis Statue. Among the attendees were the District Governor Mustafa Çit, Mayor Tamer Mandalinci, representatives of various political parties, NGOs, local muhtars veterans and numerous residents of Bodrum. The program began with a moment of silence followed by the national anthem, performed by the Aksaz Naval Base Command Band.

Turgut Reis’ (Dragut) descendant and State Conservatory artist Numan Pekdemir shared brief insights into the admiral’s life and expressed his gratitude for the enthusiastic turnout. He emphasized the importance of promoting Turgut Reis’s legacy internationally.

In his speech, Mayor Mandalinci remarked:

“Today, we are not only remembering a heroic admiral, but a legend, a Bodrum native who became a global maritime figure. As the Municipality of Bodrum, we are committed to preserving his name, passing his legacy to future generations and honoring Bodrum’s historical heritage alongside its natural beauty.”

The ceremony continued with the distribution of traditional keshkek and lokma to attendees, concluding with a group photo at the statue site.

Later in the day, the Historical Alperen Mehteran Band (Ottoman military band) from İncirliova led a vibrant parade from Turgutreis Migros to Atatürk Square, drawing large crowds along the route. The subsequent Mehteran performance added a festive atmosphere, with Mayor Mandalinci briefly joining the show.

The programme culminated in a moving commemorative concert by the Aksaz Naval Base Command Band, where the audience energetically engaged with the performance. In his closing remarks, Mayor Mandalinci stated:

“Turgut Reis was no ordinary sailor. He was a fearless leader whose courage and foresight left a mark on every land he touched. Even 460 years after his death, thousands still honor him here in his homeland. By remembering our past, we pave the way for a stronger future, together.”

The event concluded with a flower presentation and a final lokma offering at Turgutreis Yalı Mosque.