Attractions and Places To See in Ankara - Top 20

Exhibitions include: Portraits: Of all former Turkish presidents and prime ministers. Historical artifacts: Photographs, documents, and personal belongings of Atatürk and other early leaders. Collections: Banknotes and coins issued during the republican period. The Republic Museum offers a detailed insight into the foundation and early development of the Turkish state. It is located in the Ulus district, near the Museum of the Turkish War of Independence. Address: Cumhuriyet Bulvarı No. 6, Ulus-ANKARA. Phone: +90 (312) 310-5361. Opening hours (summer): From April 1st to October 1st, daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (ticket office closes at 6:45 PM). Opening hours (winter): From October 1st to April 1st, daily from 9am to 5pm (ticket office closes at 4.45pm).

The Republic Museum (Cumhuriyet Müzesi) in Ankara is housed in Turkey's second parliament building, which was in use from 1924 to 1960. Designed by architect Vedat Tek, the building opened as a museum on September 30, 1981, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's birth. What to see? The museum showcases the significant political and social changes that took place during the early years of the Turkish Republic. You can explore the historic plenary hall where crucial laws and reforms were passed.

In the museum, you can explore the original parliament building, including the plenary hall where historical debates took place. The exhibitions feature: Historical documents: Declarations, contracts, and important official documents from the war. Personal belongings: Clothing and personal items belonging to soldiers and leaders, including Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Weapons and uniforms: Old weapons, medals, and military uniforms that provide a glimpse into the equipment of the era. Photos and maps: Visual representations of the fighting and the advance of the Turkish army. A visit to this museum provides a deep understanding of the founding of the Turkish Republic and the invincible spirit of the Turkish people during this crucial period.

The Kurtuluş Savaşı Museum, or the Museum of the Turkish War of Independence, is located in the building of the first Turkish parliament in Ankara. It serves as an important historical monument documenting the heroic struggle of the Turkish people for independence. History of the building The building served as the first parliament of the Turkish Republic between 1920 and 1924, a crucial period during the War of Independence. It was here that the political and military decisions leading to the establishment of the modern Turkish state were made. After the parliament moved to a new building, this historic building officially became a museum in 1961.

Architecture: Inside, admire the intricate wooden ceiling, stained-glass windows, and Kütahya tiles. The colorful pulpit (mimbar) is a beautiful example of traditional craftsmanship. Mausoleum: The Hacı Bayram-ı Veli Mausoleum is an important pilgrimage site for many believers and a magnificent example of 15th-century architecture, made of stone and marble. Temple of Augustus: Right next to the mosque are the remains of the Roman Temple of Augustus and Rome. Built in 20 BC, this temple houses the Res Gestae Divi Augusti, an inscription of the deeds of Emperor Augustus. The harmonious coexistence of the mosque and temple symbolizes Ankara's multi-layered history. Surroundings: Located in the Altındağ district, the complex is surrounded by a park, a fountain, and a square where religious artifacts and souvenirs are sold.

The Hacı Bayram Mosque in Ankara is an iconic religious center of deep historical and cultural significance. It stands next to the ruins of the Temple of Augustus, creating a unique blend of Roman and Ottoman history. History and Significance Originally built in 1427, the mosque is named after the Turkish poet and Sufi saint Hacı Bayram-ı Veli, whose mausoleum is located next to it. The current architecture combines styles from the 17th and 18th centuries, with additions and restorations throughout the centuries. In 2016, the complex was added to the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Turkey.

Architecture: Inside, admire the intricate wooden ceiling, stained-glass windows, and Kütahya tiles. The colorful pulpit (mimbar) is a beautiful example of traditional craftsmanship. Mausoleum: The Hacı Bayram-ı Veli Mausoleum is an important pilgrimage site for many believers and a magnificent example of 15th-century architecture, made of stone and marble. Temple of Augustus: Right next to the mosque are the remains of the Roman Temple of Augustus and Rome. Built in 20 BC, this temple houses the Res Gestae Divi Augusti, an inscription of the deeds of Emperor Augustus. The harmonious coexistence of the mosque and temple symbolizes Ankara's multi-layered history. Surroundings: Located in the Altındağ district, the complex is surrounded by a park, a fountain, and a square where religious artifacts and souvenirs are sold.

Ankara Castle, or "Ankara Kalesi" in Turkish, is one of the city's oldest landmarks. It's not a traditional castle like those you might see in Western Europe, but rather a citadel perched on a hill overlooking the city. History The castle's origins date back to the 8th century BC, when the Phrygians built the first fortress here. Over the centuries, the castle has been rebuilt and restored by various civilizations, including the Galatians, Romans, Byzantines, and Seljuks. The walls are constructed from recycled building materials, including fragments from ancient Roman buildings. The current structure dates primarily from the Byzantine and Seljuk periods.