ANKARA MUST SEE SIGNIFICANT PLACES & LANDMARKS
ANITKABİR
Anıtkabir, the eternal resting place of the Great Leader Atatürk, founder of the Republic of Turkey, is located in the heart of Ankara.
The themes of reliefs and statues prepared for Anıtkabir are chosen from the history, the history of the Turkish War of Independence and the Republic, and Atatürk's life.
The Great Leader Atatürk, achieved success by getting the support of his nation during his struggle to create an independent Turkish Nation under the concept of a democratic state based on national sovereignty.
Atatürk instilled in his beloved nation that a nation's resoluteness and eagerness would save the independence and unity of the motherland against the invading enemy. It was this resoluteness and eagerness that enabled Atatürk to establish independent Republic of Turkey, and to make the necessary reforms to elevate Turkey to the level of contemporary civilization.
His illness worsened and he passed away in Dolmabahçe Palace on November 10, 1938, in the fifteenth year of the Republic. He did not have a grave built for himself; nor did he leave a testament regarding the place of interment.
In 1923, during a conversation, he said "Of course, I will die one day and you will bury me in Çankaya and keep my memory alive" and then added "Let my nation bury me where they want, but Çankaya will be the place my memory will continue to live ".
Anıtkabir, which is the expression of the great respect and appreciation of the Turkish Nation for their Great Leader, is the most meaningful work of the Republic of Turkey.
MUSEUM OF ANATOLIAN CIVILIZATIONS
At 200,000 artifacts strong and with an award for "European Museum of the Year" under its belt, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations (Anadolu Medeniyetleri Müzesi in the Turkish tongue) may be one of two must see cultural attractions in Ankara. The other? Ataturk's tomb (your welcome).
As is alluded to in the museum's name, their are a wide range of exhibits pertaining to Anatolian archaeology, from Paleolithic stone tools to tablets and figurines of the Hittite period, with over 10,000 years of human development on display from across Asia Minor. Located in a former covered bazaar in the Atpazarı district, these artifacts have been culled form excavation sites all across Turkey and are a true reckoning of the numerous civilizations (Greeks, Romans, Hittites, Ottomans, Phrygians) that rose and fell here. To not explore this building for half a day would be a disservice to your credibility as Embark traveler. We would HATE to have to revoke such a title.
HAMAMÖNÜ
A tiny, revived neighborhood in the historic Altındağ ("Old Ankara") district, Hamamönü is a place the city has done much to restore and maintain, linking the modern world with classic Ottoman architecture and heritage. One stroll along a few blocks of pedestrian pathways between pristinely kept pearl-colored, chocolate-trimmed houses and you'll be giddy with fantasies of a time centuries past.
The main boulevard is known as "art street" (Sanat Street), where artisans sell their wares outside of refurbished workshops. Contemporary restaurants and cafes are quite common, while a number of local institutions have also gotten a face lift. The Mehmet Akif Ersoy Culture Park and Museum is a highly-regarded attraction in the former home of the writer who penned Turkey's national anthem, while mosques like the 600 year old Haci Musa or the Sarikadi Cami are worth a stop.
ANKARA CITADEL
Nearly every city has a central landmark or two that tower above the rest. Quite often they are symbolic of the city and they are almost always essential as a fixture for navigation. Ankara Castle (Ankara Kalisi in Turkish) is one such landmark. And although its place upon a hill north of the city delivers a sense of prominence that has been earned in its over-a-millennium of existence, the castle walls and the surrounding neighborhood have been long overdue for reinforcement and renovation. Luckily the city of Ankara is catching on, as construction and upkeep have been undertaken on the ramparts that surround the heart of the castle and on the roads that lead to it in the hopes of creating a more desirable symbol of the capital.
The more popular entrance to the castle is adjacent to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, where there are a number of souvenir shops and attractively restored Ottoman buildings very reminiscent of another historic neighborhood in the city, Hamamönü. There are still a number of buildings in need of repair, but then again, is there ever much in the way of authenticity to be found in immaculately refurbished tourist neighborhoods? Look closely at the buildings as you ascend and you'll see original stonework and Roman inscriptions in many of the external walls, telling a tale of the many civilizations that have called this home.
Once at the top, after what can be a strenuous bit of walking, the views from the castle walls are worth the exercise. There may be no better view over Ankara. On the way down, be sure to partake in the marketplace atmosphere that thrives here; it's yet another part of the Ankara Castle experience that whisks you back in time.
KIZILAY
The literal and commercial center of Ankara, Kizılay is where the city's size will be most evident: the crowded grid-work of scattered streets, the trees bursting from the pavement, the steel facades of skyscrapers, the awnings of outdoor markets shading everything from fish to flowers. It's all here. There is a certain industriousness encountered in Kizılay, whether it's the bustle of taxis during rush hour or the clamor of friends sharing a table, that is hard to find anywhere else in the capital.
There's nowhere better to start than Kizılay Square, the most frequented public transportation point in the city and a gathering place for big social events. Head south along Ataturk Boulevard and then into the condensed maze of streets to the east if you want a seemingly limitless array of bars and pubs with no shortage of outdoor seating. Inkilap Caddesi and Konur Sokak are your highest concentration, with live music destinations like Nefes Bar and Acme Cafe and Bar, and the pub vibes of Others, Soul Pub, and Route, to name a few.
Honestly, the biggest draw in the area is the outdoor seating, which is also a perk when you sit down to eat. From American-style burgers (The Bigos) to seafood restaurants (Kumsal), you've got choices. Add to that the dozen or so doner kebob restaurants within a block of the Ataturk and Ziya Gokalp intersection and you've got both selection and Turkish authenticity. Why go anywhere else in Ankara?
LAKE TUZ
If there's a single landscape near Ankara that begs to touched, felt, and seen, it's the geological oddity known as Lake Tuz. One of the largest salt lakes in the world at over 1500 square km (580 square miles), the lake is the center of industry in the region that exists between the cities of Konya and Ankara, producing an incredible two-thirds of the salt consumed in Turkey.
A protected area since 2001 due to the fragile and unique ecosystem that supports creatures like the Greater Flamingo and Greater white-fronted goose, this body of water is an interesting visit during all seasons. In winter months the lake is quite shallow and can be waded in (although we strongly suggest wearing some sort of waterproof footwear), while it can completely dry up in the summer heat, leaving a hard crust of salt for travelers to walk on. There aren't really any official hikes, but it is worth trekking out to Büyükada Island, where a Romanesque church still stands.
Tours to Cappadocia will often stop here, which can work as a one-two punch if you're trying to cross a bunch of activities off of a list, but transportation along the E90/D750 would otherwise be the way to go for the independent traveler. Even if it's to get a few pictures wandering a salt vista that stretches to the horizon while also lingering to taste locally-grown fruit in a nearby market, a few hours at Lake Tuz can prove to be an interesting part of your Turkish adventure.
LAKE EYMİR
Ankara is full of many beautiful spots of nature and wilderness. Lake Eymir is one of the landmarks and beauty of nature, situated at a distance of 20 kilometres from the Center of the Ankara City. Local people and tourists come here to relax far away from the noise, pollution and daily busy routine of their life. This beautiful small lake is the segment of a natural park with 10 kilometres long perimeter, which is used by the people for jogging, cycling and walking. Surroundings of the lake have various picnic spots and natural wilderness. The lake is the home of more than 150 species of birds, which include shearwaters and ducklings. There is a historical building near the lake, which is used as a restaurant that has a beautiful outdoor seating to enjoy the fabulous beauty of nature.
KOCATEPE MOSQUE
Kocatepe Mosque is a spectacular sight and a marvellous cultural wonder located in Ankara, the capital city of Turkey. The construction of the mosque was started in 1967 and was completed in 1987. The mosque is the largest mosque in Ankara and is famous for its beautiful 88 meters high minarets around its main dome. In clear weather, people can see the minarets of the mosque almost from any corner of Ankara. The Kocatepe mosque is a masterpiece of the Turkish architecture whereas the walls and the roofs of the mosque are decorated with various cultural ornaments. About 24,000 people can offer their prayers at the same time in this mosque. The mosque is always open for the visitors to experience this awe-inspiring architecture of religious wonder.
ETNOGRAPHY MUSEUM
Ethnography Museum of Ankara is dedicated to the cultures and traditions of the ancient Turkish civilizations. The museum was built on a Namazgah Hill in Ankara between the years of 1925 to 1928. The museum exhibits artifacts belonging to the ancient civilizations and some belongings to the Ataturk Mustafa Kamal. These artifacts include handwoven clothes, Turkish cultural glass and tiles, prehistoric manuscripts, ancient stone and wooden art pieces and weapons used by the ancient Turkish civilizations. A method is also displayed about how Turkish civilisation used to make coffee in earlier times. The place is a complete informative and entertaining site for the people of all age groups.
AQUA VEGA AQUARIUM
The Aqua Vega Aquarium is the largest aquarium tunnel of the Turkey and most probably of Europe too. Situated in the Nata Vega Mall in Mamak Ankara. This 98-meter long tunnel is formed by 24 aquariums, which are containing 4.5 million litres of fresh and salt water along with various marine environmental characteristics. The aquarium is home to 12,000 marine creatures which include various uncommon species of fish ranges from sharks and Napoleon fish to Koi fish and Clownfish. It is one of the best places in Turkey to visit with family and children.
ATAKULE
The Atakule is an observation and communication tower with a height of 125 meters, which is situated in a hilly district of Cankaya in Central Ankara. It is the most famous landmark of the city and a most visited tourist spot in Turkey. There is an outdoor terrace and a revolving restaurant named Sevilla, which provides a complete panoramic view of the city by completing its round in an hour. One more static restaurant is available above the Sevilla and also a UFO café is serving under the terrace. The base portion of the tower is a shopping mall, which houses different brand shops and other small and famous restaurants. Atakule mall is being renewed nowadays it will stay under construction for a while.
GENÇLİK PARK
Genclik Park is an attractive place of entertainment for the local families of Turkey and tourists from various region of the world, which is situated in the centre of the Ankara city. The park has covered an area of 38 hectares and was initially opened in 1943. This park provides equal entertainment to the people of all age groups. Various beautiful tea gardens, colourful water fountain shows and the Luna Park Funfair Amusement Park are main attractions of this spot. There is a huge swimming pool for swimming and rowing and different carrousels and the Ferris wheel to entertain adults and children in the same way. It is one of the must visit places in Turkey.
ATATÜRK FOREST FARM ZOO
The Ataturk Forest Farm & Zoo is an extensive recreational site located in the municipality of Ankara. This farming area includes a small zoo, an aquarium, various agricultural farms, some greenhouses and restaurants. There is also a brewery and a dairy farm, which are administered by the Ministry of the Agriculture and Village Affairs of Turkey. The zoo at the farm has covered an area of 79 acres, which is home to the various birds, big cats, apes, monkeys and snakes. Visitors can taste the fresh products of dairy and brewery like a cup of beer and ice-cream. Restaurants serve meat rolls, charcoal kebabs and other traditional foods to the visitors. People of all ages enjoy this forest farm equally.
ROMAN BATH
Visiting the Roman Baths in Ankara is a good way to learn Roman history through little stories, statues, and inscriptions. Constructed in the third century by the Roman Emperor Caracalla, the baths were built around three principal rooms: the caldarium (hot bath), thetepidarium (warm bath) and the frigidarium (cold bath). The baths were in use up until the eighth century when they were destroyed by fire leaving only the ruins of the basement and first floor. Whilst only ruins, these Baths are remains of ancient history and therefore the aura of wonder and mystery that surrounds them is palpable.
KUĞULU PARK
One of the oases in an often bustling and noisy city is Kuğulu Parkı, at the southern end of Tunalı Hilmi Caddesi. Famous with the swans and ducks.
SEĞMENLER PARK
It is one of the most important open spaces in Ankara where you can have a good taste of nature in the core of the city. There is as well a small amphitheater in the park to host small concerts. It is quite a lively place especially in the summer evenings where most of the people gather to chill.
BOTANİK PARK
Amazing location in the heart of the city. First park that fishes were living in the artificial ponds of the park. It put into service in 1970 on the area of 65.000m2. It is located near Atakule which is one of the symbols of the city.
ANKA PARK (Under Construction)
With 217 pieces toys and 14 roller coasters Anka Park is getting ready to welcome its guests. The most realistic dinosaur models and Universal Studio Cinema Systems will be serving to visitors to maximize the fun. Besides that the most important symbol of Ankara, the Zoo of Atatürk Forest Farm will take place in Anka Park. Animals from all continents will be open to visit.
MUSEUM OF THE REPUBLİC (OLD PARLİAMENT HOUSE)
The State Art and Sculpture Museum is a museum dedicated to fine arts and sculpture in Ankara. Exhibitions of painting, sculpture, ceramic, printing arts and photography that are programmed to take place in Turkey within the framework of international cultural agreements, are exhibited in the three galleries reserved for periodical exhibitions; thus, the art works of foreign countries are made known to the Turkish public.
ERİMTAN ARCHAELOGY & ARTS MUSEUM
Ankara's newest museum houses the astounding collection of mostly Roman (but also Bronze Age, Hittite and Byzantine) artefacts collected over the years by Turkish businessman and archaeology enthusiast Yüksel Erimtan. Exhibits are creatively curated with an eye for storytelling and feature state-of-the-art multimedia displays. There are some fabulously beautiful ceramic and jewellery pieces here as well as a vast coin collection, cuneiform tablets from Kültepe and an ornate Urartian belt. The cafe downstairs has a tranquil garden setting and serves excellent coffee.
TEMPLE OF AUGUSTUS
Except for a couple of imposing, inscribed walls, not much remains of this temple (AD 25) built to honour the Roman Emperor Augustus.
COLUMN OF JULİAN
LOCATION Çam Sokak Ankara, Turkey Location of Column of Julian on map© Mapbox© OpenStreetMap contributors Erected in honour of Roman Emperor Julian the Apostate's visit to Ankara, the Column of Julian sits proudly in a square ringed by government buildings, it is usually topped by a stork's nest.
CER MODERN
Located in an old train depot, this huge artists' park and gallery exhibits modern and challenging art from across Europe, plus there's an excellent cafe and shop. Cultural events are also staged here.
HACI BAYRAM CAMİİ
Ankara's most revered mosque is Hacı Bayram Camii. Hacı Bayram Veli was a Muslim 'saint' who founded the Bayramiye dervish order around 1400. Ankara was the order's centre and Hacı Bayram Veli is still revered by pious Muslims. The mosque was built in the 15th century, with tiling added in the 18th century. Surrounding shops sell religious paraphernalia (including wooden toothbrushes as used, supposedly, by the Prophet Mohammed).
MİLLİ KÜTÜPHANE
Millî Kütüphane is the National Library of Turkey, located in Ankara. It was founded on April 15, 1946. Milli Kütüphane has one of the richest collections in Turkey. The collection consists of 3.089.517 items.
BEYPAZARI
Beypazarı is a trademark in cultural and historical tourism with a reputation crossing the borders of Turkey. Vibrant streets and historical buildings, traditional bazaars, museums demonstrating the customs in the region, and accommodation in boutique hotels converted from local houses are among the pillars of Beypazarı’s reputation. The district also hosts the spring of famous and delicious Beypazarı natural mineral water. Beypazarı is 100 kilometers away from Ankara city center and is located between Ayaş and Nallıhan.
