Gazibeğendi Hill provides some of Kuşadası’s most captivating sites. But, how did it derive its name?
Months after the proclamation of the Turkish Republic, Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk embarked on a national tour of the Aegean, visiting Aydın and its surrounding areas, and stopping in Kuşadası.
The peak gets its name following Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s visit to the city on February 9, 1924.
After Atatürk’s car stopped at this point during his visit and watched the view for a while, and then expressed his admiration. His comment: “I liked it,” became the name of this hill years later. This is the hidden, meaning Gazi Beğendi (Gazi Liked It)
Today, Gazibeğendi Hill remains one of Kuşadası’s most special destinations, both for its historical significance and its visual beauty. A statue of Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk was erected in 2014 on Gazibeğendi Hill and unveiled as part of the Gallipoli Victory celebrations on March 18, 2014.
In 2024, commemoration ceremonies were held on Gazibeğendi Hill to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Atatürk’s arrival in Kuşadası.
The area offers a social space for locals with observation terraces, walking paths, restaurants, and playgrounds. The panoramic view, especially at sunset, offers a moment when time seems to stand still for those who want to experience Atatürk’s admiration.
Natural Botanical Park
Another viewing point in Kuşadası, the Natural Botanical Park, is a natural wonder with the most beautiful examples of Mediterranean flora, wildlife, and rich coastal ecosystem, and is one of the most frequently visited areas by those who love to watch the scenery and take photos.
The region, which was declared a botanical park and taken under protection in 2011, is also home to Kuşadası’s most beautiful natural view terraces.
The park, thanks to the work carried out by Kuşadası Municipality, is a popular spot with its light effects at all hours of the day, especially during sunrises and sunsets.
The park houses 18 types of orchids and 400 different plant species, as well as the ‘tülüşah’, an endemic plant species unique to Kuşadası. It also serves as a nesting area for lesser kestrels and rock pigeons, thanks to the rich underwater fauna along the coastline.