It’s the most beautiful time of summer… We walk in the footsteps of history, each step through the ancient city of Side sparking new questions in our minds: What kind of life once existed here? How did people live? What did they create? Eventually, we arrive at one of the most remarkable spots of the ancient city — a square where the streets meet the sea. And there, a magnificent statue welcomes us: Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the savior of our nation and the founder of our Republic. Looking more closely, the stone used for the sculpture feels familiar — yes, it’s diabase, produced by Demirtaş Madencilik.
After exchanging a few messages and making a quick call, we learn more about the project. Commissioned by the Manavgat Municipality as part of the 100th Anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye celebrations, this impressive statue was installed in 2023 in the ancient city of Side. The material for the work was supplied by Demirtaş Mining. Ahmet Saz, Chairman of the Board of Demirtaş Maden, expressed his pride in being part of such a meaningful project: “We celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye together, and we are deeply honored to contribute to this historic milestone with such a meaningful project — a statue of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. This will always hold a very special place for us.”
