As the capital of the Republic of Turkey, Ankara stands at the center of the nation’s political, administrative, cultural, and diplomatic life. While often overshadowed by the fame of Istanbul, Ankara offers visitors a fascinating blend of ancient history, modern urban planning, vibrant cultural institutions, and national heritage.
Located in the heart of Anatolia, Ankara is a city where thousands of years of civilization coexist with the dynamic energy of a modern capital. Wide boulevards, green parks, prestigious universities, government institutions, foreign embassies, museums, shopping districts, and cultural venues create a sophisticated urban landscape that reflects Turkey’s transformation into a modern republic.
Today, Ankara is not only the political center of the country but also one of Turkey’s most important centers for education, business, culture, and international diplomacy.
A City with a History Spanning Millennia
Ankara’s history stretches back to the Bronze Age, making it one of Anatolia’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements. Throughout the centuries, numerous civilizations have left their mark on the city, creating a rich cultural heritage that remains visible today.
Among the civilizations that ruled or inhabited the region were:
- The Hittites
- The Phrygians
- The Galatians
- The Romans
- The Byzantines
- The Seljuk Turks
- The Ottomans
Each culture contributed to Ankara’s development, leaving behind monuments, artifacts, traditions, and architectural treasures that continue to attract historians and visitors from around the world.
One of the best places to explore this remarkable history is the renowned Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. Widely considered one of Turkey’s finest museums, it presents an extraordinary collection of artifacts that illustrate the rise and fall of the many civilizations that shaped Anatolia over thousands of years.
From Provincial Town to National Capital
For much of its history, Ankara remained a modest Anatolian town. Everything changed in 1923 when Mustafa Kemal Ataturk selected Ankara as the capital of the newly established Republic of Turkey.
The decision transformed the city dramatically. Extensive urban planning projects were launched to create a modern capital capable of representing the aspirations of the new republic.
Unlike many historic cities that developed organically over centuries, Ankara benefited from comprehensive urban planning beginning in the 1930s. Wide avenues, public squares, government complexes, residential districts, and green spaces were carefully designed, giving the city its distinctive organized appearance.
Today, Ankara remains one of Turkey’s best-planned cities, combining modern infrastructure with historical landmarks and cultural attractions.
Exploring Ankara’s Historic Center
Ankara Citadel
The historic Ankara Citadel is among the city’s most iconic landmarks. Perched on a hill overlooking the capital, the fortress offers spectacular panoramic views of Ankara’s modern skyline and historic neighborhoods.
The Citadel area preserves much of Ankara’s traditional character, with narrow cobbled streets, restored Ottoman houses, artisan workshops, and small cafés. Walking through its winding alleys provides visitors with a glimpse into the city’s past.
Ulus District
The historic district of Ulus serves as the cultural heart of old Ankara. Here, visitors can explore numerous historical monuments, museums, mosques, and traditional marketplaces.
One of the most popular areas is Cikrikcilar Yokusu, a historic shopping street known for its antique stores, traditional crafts, and local merchants.
Bakircilar Carsisi
The famous Copper Market, known as Bakircilar Carsisi, is a treasure trove for shoppers seeking authentic Turkish handicrafts. Visitors can browse a wide selection of:
- Handcrafted copper items
- Traditional jewelry
- Handmade carpets and kilims
- Embroidered textiles
- Antiques
- Decorative objects
- Traditional costumes and accessories
The market remains one of the best places to experience Ankara’s traditional commercial culture.
Modern Ankara and the Atakule Tower
While Ankara embraces its historical heritage, it is equally proud of its modern identity.
One of the city’s most recognizable landmarks is the Atakule Tower, located in the upscale district of Cankaya. Rising 125 meters above the city, the tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of Ankara and its surrounding landscape.
The observation areas and restaurants make Atakule a popular destination for both tourists and residents seeking spectacular views, especially at sunset.
The district of Cankaya is also home to numerous embassies, government institutions, cultural centers, luxury hotels, shopping areas, and modern residential neighborhoods.
Anitkabir: The Mausoleum of Ataturk
No visit to Ankara is complete without seeing Anıtkabir, the magnificent mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.
As the final resting place of the founder of modern Turkey, Anitkabir is one of the country’s most important national monuments. The complex combines monumental architecture, museums, ceremonial grounds, and exhibits that tell the story of Turkey’s War of Independence and the founding of the republic.
Millions of visitors come each year to pay their respects and learn more about Ataturk’s extraordinary legacy.
Museums and Historical Attractions
Ankara offers an impressive variety of museums and archaeological sites, including:
Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
A world-class museum showcasing artifacts from prehistoric Anatolia through the Ottoman period.
Ethnography Museum
Dedicated to Turkish folk culture, traditional arts, and ethnographic heritage.
State Museum of Painting and Sculpture
Featuring important works by Turkish artists and sculptors.
Temple of Augustus
One of the most significant Roman monuments in Turkey, famous for its inscriptions documenting the achievements of Emperor Augustus.
Roman Baths
Ancient bath complexes that provide insight into daily life during the Roman era.
These attractions make Ankara one of Turkey’s most rewarding destinations for history and culture enthusiasts.
Festivals and Cultural Events
Ankara hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, attracting artists, performers, and visitors from across Turkey and beyond.
International Arts and Music Festival
Held annually in April, this prestigious festival features concerts, theater performances, exhibitions, dance productions, and cultural programs.
International Children’s Festival
Celebrated on April 23, this unique event welcomes children from many countries and honors the importance of youth and international friendship.
These festivals contribute to Ankara’s reputation as a vibrant cultural capital.
Excursions from Ankara
Thanks to its central location, Ankara serves as an excellent base for exploring some of Anatolia’s most important historical sites.
Gordion
The ancient city of Gordion was once the capital of the Phrygian Kingdom and the legendary home of King Midas.
Visitors can explore:
- The famous Midas Tumulus
- Phrygian necropolises
- Archaeological remains
- The local museum
Hattusa
The UNESCO-listed ancient city of Hattusa was the capital of the Hittite Empire and one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world.
Highlights include:
- Massive Cyclopean walls
- The Royal Gate
- Lion Gate
- Temple of the Storm God
- The sacred sanctuary of Yazilikaya
Cappadocia
Ankara is also a convenient gateway to the spectacular landscapes of Cappadocia, famous for its fairy chimneys, underground cities, cave churches, and hot-air balloon flights.
Districts of Ankara
The province of Ankara consists of numerous districts, each contributing to the city’s diversity and development:
- Akyurt
- Altındag
- Ayas
- Bala
- Beypazari
- Camlidere
- Cankaya
- Cubuk
- Elmadag
- Etimesgut
- Evren
- Golbasi
- Güdül
- Haymana
- Kalecik
- Kahramankazan
- Kecioren
- Kizilcahamam
- Mamak
- Nallihan
- Polatli
- Sincan
- Sereflikochisar
- Yenimahalle
- Kavaklidere
- Iskitler
- Gaziosmanpasa
Each district offers its own unique combination of history, culture, nature, and modern development.
Transportation and Access
By Air
Ankara is served by Esenboga Airport, located approximately 25 kilometers northeast of the city center. The airport offers numerous domestic and international connections.
By Road
Ankara is connected to all major Turkish cities through an extensive highway network and modern intercity bus services.
By Rail
The city serves as a major railway hub with connections to Istanbul, Izmir, Adana, Erzurum, Van, and other destinations. High-speed train services have further strengthened Ankara’s accessibility.
Ankara is far more than Turkey’s administrative capital. It is a city where ancient civilizations, national history, modern architecture, vibrant culture, and dynamic urban life converge. From the treasures of the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and the grandeur of AnItkabir to the bustling markets of Ulus and the panoramic views from Atakule, Ankara offers visitors a rich and rewarding travel experience.
Whether exploring its archaeological heritage, attending cultural festivals, shopping in traditional bazaars, or using it as a gateway to central Anatolia’s historic wonders, visitors quickly discover that Ankara is one of Turkey’s most fascinating and underrated destinations.