What is the Capital of Turkey? Uncovering the History and Culture of Ankara

Ankara is the vibrant capital city of Turkey, but it hasn’t always held this status. Istanbul used to be the capital of the Ottoman Empire, so how did Ankara become the modern capital instead? As a major metropolitan area, Ankara has plenty to offer visitors and residents alike. Let’s explore the long history and modern attractions of this fascinating city.

A Brief History of Ankaras have lived in Ankara since at least 1000 BCE, with the ancient Hatti people settling in the area. Around 278 BCE, the Celtic Galatians conquered Ankara and made it part of their kingdom. In 25 BCE, the Roman Empire incorporated Ankara and the city thrived under Roman rule. Many Roman ruins like baths, roads, and temples still stand today.

After the Roman Empire split, Ankara became part of the Byzantine Empire. It was attacked by Persians and Arabs over the years. In 1073 CE, Ankara was captured by Seljuk Turks. For centuries, various Turkish groups fought for control of the strategic city. Ankara declined in importance during this period.

In the 1300s, the Ottomans conquered Ankara. It remained under their control until the empire collapsed after World War I. In 1919, Turkish nationalist Mustafa Kemal Atatürk chose Ankara as his base while fighting invading Greek forces. After Turkey gained independence in 1923, Atatürk declared Ankara the new capital.

Why Ankara Became the Capital

Istanbul had been the capital of the Ottoman Empire for over 450 years by the 1900s. As the new Turkish Republic emerged, leaders wanted a fresh start with a forward-looking capital. Ankara was an important stop on trade routes, but it was much smaller and less cosmopolitan than glamorous Istanbul.

Ankara was seen as a blank canvas where modern urban planning could transform the city into a symbol of the new nation. The small size also allowed for swift building and expansion. Ankara grew rapidly as government ministries relocated there along with new inhabitants. Today the population is over 5 million in the metro area.

Key Attractions to See in Ankara

As a long-inhabited settlement, Ankara has fascinating sights spanning the centuries. Here are some of the top attractions to check out:

• Ankara Castle – This medieval castle was built upon earlier fortifications dating back to the 3rd century BCE, Explore the towers and ramparts

• Roman Baths – Founded in the 3rd century CE, these ancient baths give a glimpse into lavish Roman life. Intricate mosaics and pools remain.

• Anıtkabir – This grand mausoleum holds the tomb of Atatürk, founder of modern Turkey The site includes museums about his life.

• Museum of Anatolian Civilizations – With artifacts spanning paleolithic to Roman times, this history museum is a must-see.

• Citadel – Located in Ulus, this old walled part of the city preserves Ottoman and Byzantine history.

• Opera House – Catch a show at this modern performance hall that opened in 1993. It anchors a lively arts district.

Cultural Experiences in the Capital

Beyond the major monuments, Ankara offers plenty of quintessentially Turkish cultural experiences. Shop at the bustling bazaar, unwind at a hamam bathhouse, or learn to make regional dishes in a cooking class. At night, locals flock to cafes and restaurants that spill out into the streets. Ankara residents are proud of their city’s cosmopolitan vibe balanced with old world traditions.

While Istanbul boasts an incredible history as the former imperial capital, Ankara showcases the future-focused vision of Atatürk who strove to modernize Turkey. Spend some time exploring this dynamic capital to gain a well-rounded understanding of the country. From ancient sites to progressive arts, Ankara encapsulates the diverse offerings of this nation straddling Europe and Asia.

Fun Facts About Ankara

• Ankara used to be called Angora, which is where Angora cats, goats, and rabbits get their name. These fluffy animals were bred there.
• Ankara has the second largest number of museums in Turkey after Istanbul.
• The city has expanded far beyond original plans, with slums and squatter settlements added haphazardly.
• Traffic and pollution have become major problems as more people own cars. Ankara has the second worst traffic congestion in the world.
• Universities in Ankara include Middle East Technical University, Bilkent University, and Hacettepe University.

Final Thoughts on the Capital of Turkey

Ankara has grown from an ancient settlement to the thriving capital of the modern Turkish republic. While less of a household name than Istanbul, Ankara provides opportunities to discover the Turkey of today rooted in traditions of the past. From Roman baths to contemporary galleries, this cosmopolitan metropolis rewards visitors willing to venture off the beaten tourist track. Want to experience the real Turkey? Then make sure to include Ankara on your itinerary. This dynamic capital has much to offer open-minded travelers seeking engaging cultural encounters.