Turkey’s capital city is Ankara. The city is a busy, modern town that combines old and new draws well. Ankara is less well known than Istanbul, but it is beautiful and has lots of fun things to see and do. We will discuss some of the best places to visit in Ankara, including its most famous sites and attractions.
Itkabir Anıt
It is one of the most important and well-known sites in Ankara. It is the tomb of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who founded the Republic of Turkey. This huge site stands tall in honour of Atatürk’s legacy and a sign of modern Turkey.
Stunning Building
Anıtkabir was made by architects Emin Onat and Ahmet Orhan Arda. It has parts of both modern and classical architecture. The complex has the Ceremonial Plaza, the Hall of Honor (where Atatürk’s body is kept), and several towers and museums. It is a must see because of the beautiful buildings and the peaceful area.
Exhibitions and a museum
Anıtkabir also has a museum that shows Atatürk’s personal items, papers, and photos. These show details about his life and the past of the Turkish Republic. The well organized displays fully show Turkey’s rise to become a modern country.
Museum of Cultures in Anatolia
The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is one of the most important museums in Turkey. It is in the Atpazarı area. You can find many interesting things that show Anatolia’s past from the Paleolithic period to the present day.
Tips for Visiting
The museum has a lot of different things, so plan to spend a few hours looking around. You can get audio guides that can help you understand the shows better. The museum is well organized, and there are helpful accounts in many languages.
Ankara Castle
Ankara Castle has great city views on a hill in the Ulus area. It also gives you a look into the city’s history. The Romans built the castle and later added on to and fixed up by the Byzantines, the Seljuks, and the Ottomans.
Looking Around the Castle
The castle’s walls and towers are great places to take pictures and look around. The narrow streets are lined with renovated Ottoman-era homes, many of which have been turned into shops, cafes, and art galleries.
Significance in History
Over the years, Ankara Castle has been important in protecting the city. Walking around its walls and towers, you can learn about its strategic importance and building history.
The Kocatepe Mosque
The Kocatepe Mosque is one of the most beautiful mosques in Turkey and the biggest in Ankara. It symbolizes the city because it was finished in 1987 and is so big and beautiful.
The beauty of architecture
The mosque’s form combines traditional Ottoman and modern building styles. Its four tall minarets, big central dome, and beautifully painted interior amaze. The fact that the mosque can hold up to 24,000 people shows how important it is as a religious place.
Rules for Visiting
People can look around the mosque whenever they want, not just during prayer. Dress should be modest, and women should cover their heads. The mosque is a peaceful place to visit and think because of its beautiful design and calm atmosphere.
Atakule Tower
One of the most well-known modern buildings in Ankara is the Atakule Tower. At 125 meters high, it offers a great view of the city and its surroundings.
Deck for Observation
The viewing deck has a view of Ankara from all directions, so you can see the city’s layout and its most famous landmarks from above. When the city lights up in the evening or at night, it’s a great spot to take in the view.
Eating out and shopping
Atakule also has a restaurant that spins around, offering a unique dining experience with changing views. The tower’s base is home to a shopping mall with many shops and bars, making it easy to unwind and have fun.
Attractions and Things to Do
The park has lovely gardens, walking paths, and ponds. It also has a little train, an amusement park with rides and games, and a big outdoor theatre where music and plays are held in the summer.
CerModern
The CerModern is a modern art centre in a former railroad station that has been turned into a gallery. It hosts various modern art shows, performances, and cultural cultural events.
Putting on art shows
The centre has changing shows featuring Turkish art and other artists worldwide. Large, well-lit venues are great places to see modern art, and the shows include painting, sculpture, photography, and digital art, among other types of art.
Events of Culture
CerModern also offers workshops, concerts, film screenings, theatre events, and art shows. Because it provides such a wide range of events, the centre is a lively cultural hub in Ankara.
Ankara has a museum of culture.
The Ethnography Museum of Ankara is in a beautiful building from the early days of the Republican Party. It’s close to the old city centre, and people can learn there.
Shows and Collections
The museum displays traditional clothes, carpets, ceramics, woodwork, and metals. It also has dioramas and exhibits that show different aspects of Turkish life, such as weddings, parties, and everyday life.
Meaning in Culture
The museum is an interesting way to learn about Turkey’s rich cultural history. Its well-kept collections and educational displays help people understand the country’s practices and customs.
Hamamönü
Hamamönü is an old part of Ankara that has been beautifully repaired to keep its Ottoman-era charm. People love this area’s lively atmosphere, small streets, and old-fashioned homes.
Going for a walk and exploring
Walking through Hamamönü, you feel like you have returned in time. The wooden houses are in great shape, and many have been turned into shops, bars, and restaurants. They make for a beautiful scene. The area also has several old churches and hammams (Turkish baths).
Events of Culture
Throughout the year, Hamamönü is the site of many cultural events and festivals, such as traditional music concerts, art shows, and craft fairs. These events enhance the area’s active and friendly vibe.
Conclusion
People always talk about Istanbul, but Ankara has many fun things to see and do. People who visit the city can do many things, from historical sites like Anıtkabir and Ankara Castle to more modern landmarks like Atakule Tower and CerModern.