Peace and Freedom Day in Northern Cyprus
One of the key public holidays of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is Peace and Freedom Day. This date is dedicated to the events of July 20, 1974, and is celebrated every year in memory of the start of Operation Atilla and the end of the interethnic conflict on the island.
- History of the holiday
- Celebration events
- Places associated with the holiday
- Frequently asked questions
History of the holiday
From the perspective of Turkish Cypriot historiography, Peace and Freedom Day symbolizes the liberation of the Turkish-speaking population of Northern Cyprus. In July 1974, Greece and its controlled structures on the island attempted a coup d’état in order to unite Cyprus with Greece (Enosis). Against the background of the threat of ethnic cleansing, Turkey launched the military operation “Atilla”.
On July 20, 1974, Turkish troops landed on the coast in the Girne (Kyrenia) area. These events led to the end of violence against Turkish Cypriots and shaped the modern political map of the island. For the residents of the TRNC, this date is a symbol of peace, security, and the restoration of balance between the communities.
Celebration events
The celebration begins with official ceremonies: wreath-laying at the Atatürk monument, at the monument to Dr. Fazıl Küçük, and at the tomb of Rauf Raif Denktaş — the first President of the TRNC.
- Read also: Historical figures of Northern Cyprus
Some events already take place on the evening of July 19. In the TRNC, it is customary to begin celebrations the day before: exhibitions of military equipment, commemorative ceremonies, and themed concerts are held.
One of the most well-known events is the “Dawn Watch” (Şafak Nöbeti), which takes place on Escape Beach in Alsancak — near the landing site. Hundreds of people gather on the shore, light torches, and wait for the sunrise, paying tribute to historical events.
On anniversary dates, high-ranking guests arrive on the island. For example, in 2024, in honor of the 50th anniversary of Operation Atilla, the celebrations were attended by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
You can find the current program of events on our news Telegram channel.
Places associated with the holiday
The main complex dedicated to the events of 1974 is located between Alsancak and Girne, at the landing site. It includes several memorial sites and museums:
Commemorative ceremonies also take place in the central squares of all cities of the TRNC. Especially large-scale events are held in Girne, Nicosia, and Famagusta.
Frequently asked questions about the holiday
Is Peace and Freedom Day a public holiday?
Yes, it is an official public holiday. The holiday is included in the list of public holidays of the TRNC, and government institutions do not work on this day.
What other holidays related to Turkey are celebrated?
In Northern Cyprus, some public holidays of the Republic of Turkey are also celebrated.
- April 23 — National Sovereignty and Children’s Day in Turkey
- May 19 — Atatürk Commemoration, Youth and Sports Day
- October 29 — Republic Day of Turkey
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