Turkish authorities hit back at claims memorial being destroyed

The Anzac memorial at Gallipoli. Photo / File

Turkish authorities have hit back at claims a historical monument at Anzac Cove honouring the dead is being destroyed.

Reports have emerged that an inscription on the monument has been removed by the Turkish Government.

The 1985 Gallipoli monument was supposed to be restored, but now the words welcoming the dead to rest on Turkish soil have disappeared.

Sources in both Australia and Turkey told the Guardian that the motivations for the "restoration" were partly political, and reflected an increasing emphasis on religion throughout history.

However, a message posted online by Turkish authorities says there has been a "misunderstanding".

"The monument at Ariburnu is not being destroyed or altered. The stonework has been removed due to deterioration that has occurred over the years, and will be restored and replaced.

"Totally fifteen (15) similar monuments on the peninsular are also being restored in the same way as part of a programme. With regards to these monuments, history is not being destroyed or rewritten, and Ataturk's words will not be lost. The wording will be the same as in the past."