Ankara is the capital of the Turkish Republic, yes that is a fact. But did you know that it used to be one of the most important Roman settlements in Anatolia and hosted many civilizations like the Hittites, Phrygians, Lydians, Persians, Byzantines, and many more? OK, you know now. Let’s dive into Ankara’s rich historical legacy and learn some more about this glorious city that is also well-known for its cat, goat, and rabbit.
Here are some highlights about Ankara:
History: Ankara has a rich history dating back to the Bronze Age. It has been occupied by several ancient civilizations, including the Hittites, Phrygians, Persians, Galatians, Romans, Byzantines, and Seljuks. The city’s historical areas are a blend of these cultures.
Landmarks: One of the city’s most prominent landmarks is the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey. Known as Anitkabir, this site is a symbol of Turkish independence. The city is also home to the second-largest mosque in Turkey, the Kocatepe Mosque, and the historic Roman Temple of Augustus.
Museums: Ankara boasts numerous museums. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations houses a significant collection of archaeological artifacts from different civilizations that inhabited Anatolia. The Rahmi M. Koc Museum is dedicated to the history of transport, industry, and communications.
Parks and Green Spaces: Despite being a bustling city, Ankara has numerous parks and green spaces. Gençlik Parkı is a large park in Ankara that contains a man-made lake and several public amenities.
Education: Ankara is a center for learning and research. It hosts several universities, including the Middle East Technical University (METU), Bilkent University, and Ankara University.
Cuisine: The city is famous for its long-established eating and drinking culture. Ankara is especially known for its goat meat and locally produced wines.