📖 About Ankara

Ankara is the capital of Türkiye and its second-largest city, serving as the political and administrative heart of the nation. Located on the Anatolian plateau, this modern metropolis was chosen by Atatürk as the capital in 1923 to symbolize the new Turkish Republic's break with the Ottoman past and its focus on Anatolia's central importance.

In a major recognition of its cultural significance, Ankara has been officially designated as the "Tourism Capital of the Turkic World" for 2026 by the Organization of Turkic States. This prestigious title brings yearlong cultural and tourism events, international campaigns highlighting destinations like Gordion Ancient City and Lake Eymir, and expanded archaeological initiatives including the "Heritage for the Future" project.

Ankara combines its role as a modern capital with remarkable ancient heritage. The city houses world-class museums, the iconic Anıtkabir mausoleum of Atatürk, and archaeological sites spanning millennia including the recently discovered 47th tumulus at Gordion—the ancient Phrygian capital now a UNESCO World Heritage site within Ankara's city limits.

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💼 Economy & Culture

As Turkey's capital, Ankara hosts government ministries, foreign embassies, and major institutions including universities and research centers. Defense industries, technology, and services drive the economy. The 2026 Turkic World Tourism Capital designation is spurring major tourism investments including transport network expansion, new hotels, and infrastructure development to welcome international visitors.

Ankara's culture blends modern Republican values with Anatolian heritage. The city boasts world-class opera, ballet, and symphony orchestras. Traditional crafts including mohair weaving (from Angora goats) remain important. The Haci Bayram Mosque complex anchors religious life, while trendy Kızılay and Tunalı Hilmi districts offer contemporary dining and entertainment. Annual festivals celebrate both Turkish and broader Turkic cultural connections.

📜 History

Ankara's history stretches back to the Bronze Age Hatti civilization. It flourished as Ancyra under the Romans, who left the Temple of Augustus inscribed with the famous Res Gestae. The city served as a Seljuk Turkish capital before falling under Ottoman rule. Known for Angora goats and mohair trade, it remained a provincial town for centuries.

Everything changed in 1923 when Atatürk chose Ankara as the capital of the new Turkish Republic, symbolizing a break with Istanbul's Ottoman imperial past. The city was rebuilt as a modern planned capital with broad boulevards and Republican architecture. Today Ankara continues evolving, with the 2026 Tourism Capital designation marking a new chapter in celebrating both its ancient heritage and modern dynamism.