Landscape Architecture Students Explore Bornova’s Historic Square

Landscape architecture students from various universities across Türkiye visited Bornova’s Abide-i Hürriyet Square to learn about its design and implementation. Enriched with historical and cultural elements, the square was created to commemorate those who lost their lives during the 31 March Incident. Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki emphasized that young people’s ideas add value to the city.

As part of their summer internships in Bornova, students from different landscape architecture programs were hosted at Abide-i Hürriyet Square. Landscape architects from the Bornova Municipality Directorate of Technical Works and agricultural engineers from the Parks and Gardens Directorate provided the students with detailed information about the square’s design process and applications. Students also shared their opinions and suggestions regarding this historically and culturally significant site.

A Meaningful Design from Past to Present

Located in Kazım Dirik Neighborhood, right next to Yaşar University, Abide-i Hürriyet Square sits between Sanayi Street and University Street. The square was designed to honor those who lost their lives during the 31 March Incident—an uprising against the constitutional and modernization movements of the late Ottoman period.

The square consists of two sections: the first features the 18 historic Turkish states and their founders, while the second includes a monument symbolizing the pioneers of the Committee of Union and Progress and the 71 individuals martyred during the 31 March Incident.

Cultural Depth That Stands Out

Inaugurated at the end of April, the square stands out not only for its historical value but also for its cultural richness. The trio of statues featuring Atatürk, Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, and Hector—the legendary hero of the Trojan War—are complemented by the Orkhon Inscriptions, the Great Beech Tree, and various other historical figures, turning the square into an open-air museum experience for visitors.

Mayor Eşki: “Young People’s Ideas Are Valuable to Us”

Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki expressed his satisfaction in hosting the young landscape architects at Abide-i Hürriyet Square, stating:
“This is not just a square; it’s a space that keeps our history, values, and culture alive. Seeing it through the eyes of our future colleagues and hearing their suggestions is very valuable to us. As we design Bornova, we will continue to consider nature, history, and the future together.”