Nation Remembers Founding Father Atatürk

Turkey remembers the founding father of the modern republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, on the 77th anniversary of his death in ceremonies across the country, with his mausoleum in Ankara, Anıtkabir, being the heart of the events.

Anıtkabir has been opened to visit until 6: 30 p.m. on Nov. 10 in an event which sees tens of thousands of people gather every year.

The facility has been decorated with a placard by the army, reading that the nation will remember Atatürk longingly.

Life has stopped for one minute across the country at 9: 05 a.m., the exact moment Atatürk passed away, as the entire nation stood in silence and drivers blew their horns.

As part of the commemoration, a number of other ceremonies are held.

A ceremony will be held in his room at Istanbul's Dolmabahçe Palace, where he spent his last days.

Wreaths will be laid on the Atatürk statue in Taksim in central Istanbul.

Citizens will form a "chain of respect for Atatürk" on the Asian side of the city.

There will be a program at the Cemal Reşit Rey Concert Hall.

Members of the Istanbul Classical Cars Association will tour the city with 77 cars while wearing Atatürk masks. - Ankara