Ankara, with a population of over 5 million, has been the capital of Turkey since 1923 and is the second-largest city in the country after Istanbul. Founded in 2000 BCE, Ankara is located in the heart of Anatolia and serves as a significant commercial, rail, and road hub.

Tourist Attractions:

Ankara boasts numerous historical landmarks and cultural attractions. Key highlights include:

Atatürk Mausoleum (Anıtkabir) – built between 1944 and 1953 in honor of the founder of the Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

Temple of Augustus and Rome – the most significant ancient building in Ankara, constructed by the Galatians in 10 CE and later rebuilt by the Romans in the 2nd century.

Kocatepe Mosque – completed in 1987, it is the city’s largest and most modern mosque, adorned with gold leaf, marble, and stained glass.

Column of Julian – also known as the Monument of the Queen from Shea, standing 15 meters tall, it was erected in 362 CE to commemorate Emperor Julian’s visit.

Museum of Anatolian Civilizations – home to Turkey’s finest collection of ancient relics.

Lion’s Den Mosque – built in 1289, it is Ankara’s oldest mosque, named after the lion sculptures embedded in its walls.

Ankara Citadel (Ankara Kalesi) – encompassing the Old City and fortress, it is perched atop a 120-meter-high hill.

Çengelhan Caravanserai – built by the daughter of Suleiman the Magnificent, it now houses thematic exhibitions.

Roman Baths – constructed during Emperor Caracalla’s reign (212–217 CE) to honor the god of medicine, Asclepius.

Haci Bayram Mosque – founded in the 15th century by the dervish leader Bayrami, with a wooden ceiling. Nearby is Haci Bayram’s Mausoleum, featuring a marble facade and an octagonal drum-supported dome.

Other attractions: Elma Dag, Ethnographic Museum, Youth Park, and People’s House.

Cultural Events:

Ankara hosts several international festivals, such as:

Ankara International Music Festival;

International Theatre Festival;

International Film Festival.

Air Transport:

Flights to Ankara are operated by airlines like Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and Lufthansa.