Central Anatolia, Turkey
It gives travelers a genuine insight into Turkey's Anatolian soul.
The city's historical core developed around Ankara Castle, perched atop a hill. This ancient fortress commands views over the modern urban sprawl that has grown outward. From this vantage point, you can trace the city's expansion, seeing how the ancient nucleus gave way to the planned boulevards and districts of the republican era. The high altitude means cooler evenings even in summer, and crisp, clear air much of the year. This central location in Anatolia makes Ankara a hub for land travel across the country, connecting east and west, north and south.
The plateau environment shapes Ankara's character, fostering resilience and a strong connection to the land.
Ankara’s story stretches back thousands of years, a testament to its enduring importance. Before it became the proud capital of modern Turkey, various civilizations left their mark. The Bronze Age Hatti civilization first settled the area, followed by the powerful Hittites. Later, the Phrygians, Lydians, and Persians controlled this strategic crossroads. Alexander the Great's Macedonians also passed through, leaving their influence.
Under the Roman Empire, Ankara flourished as Ancyra, a major administrative center. Remnants of this Roman grandeur still dot the city. The Temple of Augustus and Rome is a copy of the Res Gestae Divi Augusti, Emperor Augustus's autobiography. This inscription is an unique historical document, giving insight into the Roman world. The city's strategic position kept its importance through the Byzantine and Ottoman empires as well, serving as a regional center of trade and administration.
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk chose Ankara as the headquarters for the Turkish War of Independence.
Central location, far from coastal invasions and Istanbul's political complexities.
Symbol of resistance and a new beginning.
Ankara declared capital of newly established Republic of Turkey.
From provincial town to planned capital, reflecting the aspirations of the young republic.
This dramatic transformation shapes Ankara’s identity. It is a city of profound historical weight, yet it carries the dynamism of a nation charting its own course.
Its historical layers give a compelling journey for anyone interested in Turkey's diverse past and its modern identity.
Ankara's central location had strategic advantages, far from coastal invasions and Istanbul's political complexities.
Ankara is a city of profound historical weight, yet it carries the dynamism of a nation charting its own course. Its historical layers give a compelling journey for anyone interested in Turkey's diverse past and its modern identity.
Ankara today serves as the capital city of the Republic of Turkey and holds the distinction of being the second-largest city by population.
Its metropolitan municipality counts approximately 5.8 million residents as of a 2023 estimate, making it a bustling urban center. The city's economic backbone rests on several industries. Government and administration form a large part of its identity, as it houses all ministries and government bodies. Healthcare facilities are advanced, serving the region's needs. Technology and defense sectors are growing, reflecting Turkey's strategic priorities. The automotive industry also maintains a presence.
Approx. 5.8 million (2023)
Government, healthcare, technology, defense, automotive.
Modern, planned capital with ancient roots.
Beyond politics, Ankara thrives as a center for cultural activities, having various museums, theaters, and art galleries.
