What Gazi University Is
Located in Beşevler, Emniyet Mahallesi, in central Ankara, Gazi University brings together an important early Republican architectural legacy and a large, active academic community. Its Central (Rectorate) Campus is about 4 km from Ulus, Ankara’s historic center, and is close to public transportation, restaurants, and shops (Gazi University Campuses).
The university has a central role in Turkey’s educational heritage and offers visitors a chance to see historic architecture, campus facilities, and student life. Its central location also makes it a starting point for visiting other Ankara landmarks.
History
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk established the institution in 1926 as the Middle Teacher Training School. It grew into one of Turkey’s leading universities. The university expanded significantly, particularly after a merger in 1982; the Faculty of Architecture was established independently in 2010 (Gazi University History, Faculty of Architecture History).
The Central Campus’s best-known historic building is the Rectorate, designed by Mimar Kemaleddin in 1929. It exemplifies the First National Architectural Movement, combining Ottoman, Seljuk, and modern elements, and is associated with Turkey’s modernization (Gazi Eğitim Enstitüsü Architecture).
What to See
Architecture and campus facilities
The Rectorate building is the campus’s architectural highlight. Other notable places include:
- Mimar Kemalettin Hall, a venue for academic and cultural events.
- Gazi Painting and Sculpture Museum, featuring Turkish art.
- Zoology Museum, with natural science displays.
- Gazi Concert Hall, which hosts concerts and events.
The Central Campus hosts the Rectorate and the Faculties of Sciences, Education, Sport Sciences, Technology, and Applied Sciences. It also houses the Institute of Information, Institute of Educational Sciences, and Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences. Research and other centers based there include the Institute for Research and Prevention of Accidents, GAZİSEM, TÖMER, and GUZEM (Central Campus Facilities).
The university serves approximately 77,000 students and employs 3,000+ faculty (Gazi University Overview).
Library, culture, and recreation
The Central Library holds about 150,000 books, 62,000 bound periodicals, and 10,000 master’s theses. It also provides access to 20,000 online journals and 30 databases. Orientation sessions are available for visitors (Gazi University Central Library).
Campus activities include the Spring Festival, public concerts, sports tournaments, theatre and student club performances, and scientific and cultural seminars (Gazi University Activities). The Gazi Cultural Center and Concert Hall are among the campus’s cultural venues.
Sports facilities include the Gazi Sports Center and Selim Sırrı Tarcan Sports Hall, supporting competitive and recreational activities (Central Campus Sports Facilities).
Student services include the Directorate of Student Affairs, Directorate of Health, Culture, and Sports, Central Campus Polyclinic, and Gazi University Application Kindergarten (Central Campus Services).
Campus growth and modernization
Since its founding, the university has expanded and modernized, with ongoing improvements to research and student facilities (Gazi University History).
Practical Visiting Information
Hours and admission
The main Beşevler campus is listed as open to visitors Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. A separate campus FAQ gives the general visiting hours as weekdays from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM; museum and event hours may vary.
Campus admission is free. Some faculty offices and research centers may restrict access, and some special events or exhibitions may require tickets. Check the Gazi University website for updates or contact visitor services.
Getting there
The Beşevler campus is served by multiple bus lines and is within walking distance of Beşevler Metro Station. Taxis and rideshare services are also available, and on-site parking is provided for visitors arriving by car.
Tours, access, and events
Guided tours organized by the Faculty of Education and cultural departments offer information about the university’s history and architecture. Arrange tours in advance through visitor services.
Major campus buildings have wheelchair ramps, accessible restrooms, and elevators. Visitors with specific requirements can notify the visitor center ahead of time to request personalized assistance.
The university holds public cultural events throughout the year, including a spring festival, concerts, exhibitions, and academic seminars.
Official and further information
Tips
Photography is welcomed in many campus areas, particularly around the Rectorate, green spaces, and modern facilities. Photography is generally permitted in public areas, though permission may be needed inside certain buildings or at some events.
Nearby Places
Nearby attractions include Anıtkabir, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, and Ankara Castle.
Anıtkabir
Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, was constructed between 1944 and 1953. Designed by Emin Onat and Ahmet Orhan Arda, it combines modern and classical elements and is a prominent symbol of Turkish independence (Anıtkabir Official Website).
- Summer hours (April 15 – October 1) 09:00 AM – 07:00 PM
- Winter hours (October 2 – April 14) 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM
- Admission Free. Guided tours and audio guides in multiple languages are available for a fee.
- Closures Closed on certain national holidays for official ceremonies.
The site has wheelchair ramps and assistance services at the entrance. Facilities include restrooms, cafes, a visitor center, and shops. Public parking is available.
Major national ceremonies take place on Republic Day (October 29) and Atatürk Memorial Day (November 10), when access may be restricted. Photography is allowed, except for drones.
Other nearby historical sites include Haci Bayram Mosque, Roman Baths, Ankara Castle, and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. Anıtkabir has educational exhibits and family-friendly facilities, and souvenirs are available from its on-site gift shops. Guided tours are available in English and other languages.
For visitor information, see the Anıtkabir official site.
FAQ
What are Gazi University’s visiting hours?
The main campus information lists Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM. A separate campus FAQ gives the general hours as weekdays, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM. Museum and event hours may vary.
Is campus entry free?
Yes. Some special events or exhibitions may require tickets.
Are guided tours available at Gazi University?
Yes. Arrange a tour in advance through visitor services.
Can I take photographs on campus?
Yes, in most outdoor and public areas. Permission may be required for certain buildings or events.
Is the campus accessible?
Major buildings have ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Advance notice is recommended for specific needs.
Is there parking at Anıtkabir?
Yes, public parking is available.
Are Anıtkabir tours available in English?
Yes. Tours are available in English and other languages.
Is Anıtkabir suitable for children?
Yes. It has educational exhibits and family-friendly facilities.
Can I buy souvenirs at Anıtkabir?
Yes. Souvenirs are available at the on-site gift shops.
