The 147th anniversary of the Aziziye Defence, one of the most significant conflicts of the 1877-1878 Ottoman-Russian War, was commemorated in Erzurum with a significant ceremony. The people of the region demonstrated exceptional heroism during this conflict. Numerous citizens and protocol members witnessed the ceremony, which was conducted by the Metropolitan Municipality and Erzurum Governorate at the Aziziye Forts.

At the event, which was attended by Atatürk University Rector Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu, academic and administrative staff, and numerous students, university members observed these emotive moments and participated in the enthusiasm.

Commemoration of the Aziziye Forts with Passion

As it did 147 years ago, the ceremony commenced with the call of the muezzin of the Ayazpaşa Mosque, who declared, "O people of Erzurum, the enemy has raided the Aziziye Forts." The soldiers should be aided by all individuals who are capable of holding a rifle and have an affection for Allah. The citizens of Erzurum, accompanied by Turkish flags and takbirs, marched to the Aziziye Bastions on Topdağı to express their gratitude to their progenitors who once again gave their lives for the sake of their homeland.

Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu, the Rector of Atatürk University, emphasised that the Aziziye Defence was a significant turning point in the history of the Turkish nation and Erzurum during his speech at the ceremony. Prof. Dr. Hacımüftüoğlu stated, "The Aziziye Defence is not merely a military triumph; it is a grand epic that our nation has composed through sacrifice and heroism." Today, we, the descendants of these martyrs, once more affirm that we have not forgotten their sacrifices. This resistance in Aziziye is a representation of our nation's commitment to its homeland and independence.

Nene Hatun's Heroism Retold

A performance of Nene Hatun was presented by the Metropolitan Municipality City Theatre artists following the ceremony. The audience was deeply moved by Nene Hatun's courageous struggle. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu commended Nene Hatun's fortitude and sacrifice for the homeland, stating, "Heroes like Nene Hatun are symbols of the Turkish nation's resistance." The heroism they exhibited will serve as a source of inspiration for both the past and the future.

A Historical Source of Pride and Remembrance

The Defence of Aziziye is regarded as a distinctive heroic epic in the annals of the Turkish nation and Erzurum. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu, the President of Atatürk University, emphasised the significance of such commemoration events in the context of national unity and solidarity, as well as the remembrance of the past. He stated, "Today, we are following in the footsteps of the epic written by our ancestors, together with all the people of Erzurum." The commemoration ceremony is of paramount significance, as the heroes of Aziziye have inscribed their names on our hearts and are the heroes of our horizons and emotions.

The Metropolitan Municipality Mehteran Team performed at the conclusion of the ceremony, and the Mevlid-i Şerif was recited in the Lalapaşa Mosque to commemorate the martyrs. The martyrs were prayed for by Governor Mustafa Çiftçi, Nene Hatun's grandson Güner Yamanlı, and other protocol members, who also expressed their gratitude to the heroes who defended these territories with their lives.

CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTORATE - November 9, 2024