Pope Leo XIV Pays Tribute at Atatürk Mausoleum in Ankara

Türkiye, November 27, 2025: Pope Leo XIV’s first engagement upon arriving in Türkiye on Thursday morning was a solemn visit to the Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, where he signed the Book of Honour in a gesture of respect.

Straight after the official welcome ceremony at Ankara’s International Airport, the Pope travelled to Anıtkabir—the monumental resting place of Atatürk—accompanied by an official delegation that included the Minister, the Vice-Governor, and the Commander of the Mausoleum.

During the visit, Pope Leo XIV signed the Mausoleum’s Book of Honour, writing: “I give thanks to God for being able to visit Türkiye, and I invoke upon this country and its people an abundance of peace and prosperity.”

The Pope is currently on the first day of a six-day Apostolic Journey to Türkiye and Lebanon, his first abroad. The Mausoleum holds deep symbolic significance for Turks as it honours Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Türkiye. It represents the birth, modernisation, and transformation of the nation.

Atatürk is widely revered as the “Father of the Turks” for leading the Turkish National Movement, establishing the Republic of Türkiye in 1923, and serving as its first president. His legacy continues to shape the country’s identity, governance, and social reforms.

Anıtkabir also serves as the final resting place of İsmet İnönü, Türkiye’s second President, who was interred there in 1973. His tomb faces Atatürk’s Mausoleum, positioned on the opposite side of the Ceremonial Ground in a symbolic gesture of continuity and respect.

The mausoleum complex comprises four principal sections: the Road of Lions, the Ceremonial Plaza, the Hall of Honour—where Atatürk’s tomb lies—and the Peace Park that surrounds the monument. Together, these elements reflect national pride, unity, and the values Atatürk championed.

Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Anıtkabir underscored a message of mutual respect and solidarity as he begins a journey focused on unity, peace, and strengthening dialogue.

Courtesy Vatican News

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