Ankara Travel Guide
Proud Capital of Turkey
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Many people overlook Ankara believing it to be little more than a transit point to other, more interesting destinations, but travellers that take time to discover the city find it has a surprising amount to offer. The city is divided into two, old and new Ankara; the old part of town contains the 7th century Citadel which contains a typical Turkish village – a great place to explore. Don’t miss the extensive Museum of Anatolian Civilisations and Atatürk’s mausoleum, the Anıt Kabir.
Ankara is a surprisingly ancient city and can trace its history back to 1200BC and the rule of the Hittites. This long history is largely a result of its geographical position at a natural trade crossroads. After Hittite rule it then passed into Phrygian, Lydian and Persian hands before attracting the attention of Alexander the Great. Its ‘modern’ history dates from the occupation by the Seljuk Turks in 1071 and subsequently the Ottomans, by which time it was just a small provincial town named Angora, famous for its goats. The city became the modern capital at the behest of Atatürk on the establishment of the Turkish Republic in 1923. Today it is two cities in one, with a planned, new city housing the modern government’s apparatus, and the older city clustered around the Citadel.
Attractions in Ankara
There are three principle places of interest to visit when staying in the city, the Citadel, the Museum of Anatolian Civilisations and Atatürk’s mausoleum, the Anıt Kabir. On passing through the Citadel’s Parmak Kapısı, Finger Gate, you enter a typical Turkish village of half-timbered houses and restored Ottoman mansions. The Museum of Anatolian Civilisations is a rival for the title of Ankara’s biggest attraction being a treasure house of items from Turkey’s many ancient civilisations. The last but not the least of the three is the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
Activities in Ankara
Ankara is ideally explored over a full day with time dedicated to the Museum of Anatolian Civilisations and then exploring the Citadel and visiting Atatürk’s Mausoleum. One or two day tours can be arranged prior to departure through local travel experts, or visit as part of a wider itinerary.
Relaxing
For something different head into the Citadel where a number of excellent restaurants can be found. Alternatively Kızılay district has plenty of mid-priced places to eat and drink. Those interested in music should not miss the International Ankara Music Festival held annually in April/May.
Getting Around
Ankara is easily explored using the public transport system of buses, underground trains and minibuses.
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