The Mystery of the Engraved Fountain Inscription, Solved after 168 Years!
New Details About Admiral Halil Pasha’s Fountain Revealed on Gallipoli Peninsula
Dr. İsmail Sabah, the Deputy Director of ÇOMÜ AÇASAM, has uncovered new information about the fountain built by Admiral Halil Pasha on the Gallipoli Peninsula. The fountain, located in the Kilitbahir village in the Eceabat district, was found to have been built to meet the water needs of the Ottoman Navy during the Crimean War and the Gallipoli Wars.
During his research on tombstones and inscriptions in Ottoman Turkish, Dr. Sabah discovered that the fountain was situated approximately 4 kilometers away from the nearest settlement, raising questions about its purpose. Further investigation revealed that the fountain was part of Piyale Pasha Garden, as mentioned in historical records and Katip Çelebi’s work.
It was determined that Admiral Halil Pasha had the fountain constructed to supply water to the Ottoman Navy during expeditions in the Mediterranean. The presence of inscriptions from the Crimean War and the Gallipoli Wars further emphasizes the military significance of the fountain.
Dr. Sabah highlighted the importance of the region for Turkish maritime history, noting that the fountain and pools surrounding it have historical significance. The inscriptions found on the fountain date back to the 19th century, with references to soldiers who visited the site during the Battle of Çanakkale in 1915.
Overall, the discovery of Admiral Halil Pasha’s fountain sheds light on the military strategies and logistical needs of the Ottoman Navy during significant historical events. The site serves as a reminder of the important role it played in supplying water to naval expeditions, making it a valuable piece of maritime history.
