Ankara

Ankara historically known as Ancyra and Angora, is the capital of Turkey. Located in the central part of Anatolia, the city has a population of 5.8 million in Ankara Province, making it Turkey's second-largest city after Istanbul.

The region's history can be traced back to the Bronze Age Hattic civilization, which was succeeded in the 2nd millennium BC by the Hittites, in the 10th century BC by the Phrygians, and later by the Lydians, Persians, Greeks, Galatians, Romans, Byzantines, and Turks (the Seljuk Sultanate of Rûm, the Ottoman Empire and finally republican Türkiye).

Serving as the capital of the ancient Celtic state of Galatia (280–64 BC), and later of the Roman province with the same name (25 BC–7th century), Ankara has various Hattian, Hittite, Lydian, Phrygian, Galatian, Greek, Persian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman archeological sites. The Ottomans made the city the capital first of the Anatolia Eyalet (1393 – late 15th century) and then the Angora Eyalet (1827–1864) and the Angora Vilayet (1867–1922). The historical center of Ankara is a rocky hill rising 150 m (500 ft) over the left bank of the Ankara River, a tributary of the Sakarya River. The hill remains crowned by the ruins of Ankara Castle. Although few of its outworks have survived, there are well-preserved examples of Roman and Ottoman architecture throughout the city, the most remarkable being the 20 BC Temple of Augustus and Rome that boasts the Monumentum Ancyranum, the inscription recording the Res Gestae Divi Augusti.

On 23 April 1920, the Grand National Assembly of Turkey was established in Ankara, which became the headquarters of the Turkish National Movement during the Turkish War of Independence. Ankara became the new Turkish capital upon the establishment of the Republic on 29 October 1923, succeeding in this role as the former Turkish capital Istanbul following the fall of the Ottoman Empire. The government is a prominent employer, but Ankara is also an important commercial and industrial city located at the center of Turkey's road and railway networks. The city gave its name to the Angora wool shorn Angora rabbits, the long-haired Angora goat (the source of mohair), and the Angora cat. The area is also known for its pears, honey and Muscat grapes.

Anıtkabir

Anıtkabir, in Ankara, is the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Republic of Turkey. Built between 1944 and 1953, it combines modern and traditional Turkish architectural styles. Covering 750,000 square meters, it consists of the Peace Park and the Monument Block. The Peace Park, featuring trees and plants from various countries, conveys friendship and peace, while the Monument Block honors Atatürk’s legacy, making Anıtkabir a symbol of national pride and historical significance.

Ethnography Museum

The Ethnography Museum of Ankara, established in 1925, is dedicated to showcasing Turkish art, culture, and traditions. Located in the city center, it features a vast collection of artifacts, including traditional costumes, textiles, wooden carvings, ceramics, and metalworks. The museum also illustrates daily life and customs of Anatolian civilizations, offering insight into Turkey’s rich cultural heritage. Additionally, it served as Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s temporary resting place until Anıtkabir was completed in 1953.

Ankara Castle

Ankara Castle, located in the heart of Ankara, is a historic fortification over 3,000 years old. It has been ruled by Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. The castle features high walls and sturdy towers, offering panoramic city views. Inside, visitors can explore narrow streets, traditional houses, and small artisan shops. Combining history and culture, Ankara Castle provides a unique glimpse into the city’s ancient heritage and architectural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for history and culture enthusiasts.

Gordion Museum

The Gordion Museum, near Polatlı, Turkey, is dedicated to the ancient city of Gordion, the Phrygian civilization’s capital. It displays artifacts from the Bronze Age, Hellenistic, and Roman periods. The museum is famous for its connection to King Midas, the legendary ruler of the “Golden Touch.” Visitors can explore pottery, statues, jewelry, and monumental burial mounds, or “tumuli,” believed to hold Phrygian royalty. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the region’s rich archaeological and historical heritage.

Temple of Augustus