ANZAC Cove (ANZAC Koyu) & Beaches: A Traveler’s Guide

Introduction

Discover ANZAC Cove, a poignant and historically significant destination on the Gallipoli Peninsula. This area, which played a crucial role in the Gallipoli Campaign of World War I, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and travelers interested in understanding the sacrifices made during this monumental conflict.

Getting There

Heading northwest from the information center, it’s a 3 km journey to the Beach (Hell Spit) Cemetery. After another 90 meters, a road cuts inland to the Shrapnel Valley and Plugge’s Plateau Cemeteries.

ANZAC Cove: A Historical Overview

Follow the coastal road for another 400 meters to reach ANZAC Cove, nestled just south of the Arıburnu cliffs. This site marks the location of the ill-fated Allied landing on April 25, 1915. The Allied forces, ordered to advance inland, encountered fierce resistance from Ottoman forces under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal. His strategic foresight and decision to disobey orders to move his troops further south to Cape Helles were pivotal in repelling the invasion. After the initial failure, the ANZAC forces focused on consolidating and expanding their beachhead while awaiting reinforcements.

 The August Offensive

In August 1915, a major offensive aimed to advance beyond the beach to the ridges of Chunuk Bair and Sarı Bair. Despite resulting in the bloodiest battles of the campaign, little progress was made.

Monuments and Memorials

ANZAC Cove is marked by a Turkish monument, located 300 meters from the initial landing site, featuring Atatürk’s famous words from 1934:

To us, there is no difference between the Johnnies and the Mehmets… You, the mothers, who sent your sons from faraway countries, wipe away your tears; your sons are now lying in our bosom… after losing their lives in this land, they have become our sons as well.

Conservation Issues

As a memorial reserve, the beach is off-limits to swimmers and picnickers. Unfortunately, erosion and roadworks have significantly damaged the cove, reducing the beach to a narrow strip of sand. In 2005, reports of human remains being uncovered and construction debris dumped on the beach caused outrage among preservation campaigners and war-grave officials.

Visiting the Surrounding Cemeteries

A few hundred meters beyond ANZAC Cove lies Arıburnu Cemetery, followed by Canterbury Cemetery 750 meters further along. Between them is the ANZAC Commemorative Site, where dawn services are held on ANZAC Day. Less than 1 km further along the seaside road are the No 2 Outpost cemeteries, set back inland, and New Zealand No 2 Outpost Cemetery, located next to the road. The Embarkation Pier Cemetery is just 200 meters beyond the New Zealand No 2 Outpost.

 Conclusion

ANZAC Cove and its surrounding beaches offer a moving tribute to the soldiers who fought and fell during the Gallipoli Campaign. While visiting, travelers are reminded of the historical significance and the need to preserve these hallowed grounds for future generations.