Ankara: The Heart of Modern Turkey
Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, is often overshadowed by Istanbul in global recognition, yet it plays a
central role in the nation’s political, cultural, and economic life. Situated in the heart of Anatolia, Ankara
is a city where ancient history and modern statehood meet, symbolizing Turkey’s transformation into a
republic in the 20th century.
A City with Deep Historical Roots
The history of Ankara stretches back thousands of years. Known in antiquity as Ancyra, the city was
inhabited by the Hittites, Phrygians, Lydians, Persians, and later the Romans and Byzantines. Under the
Roman Empire, it became an important administrative hub, while during the Seljuk and Ottoman
periods, it gained recognition as a center of trade, especially for its famed Angora wool from the region’s
goats and rabbits.
The Birthplace of the Republic
Ankara’s most defining moment came in the early 20th century. During the Turkish War of
Independence, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk chose Ankara as the headquarters of the national resistance
movement due to its strategic location and distance from foreign-controlled coastal cities. On October
13, 1923, just before the proclamation of the Republic, Ankara was declared the capital of Turkey,
replacing Istanbul. Since then, it has symbolized modernity, unity, and national identity.
Cultural and Political Significance
Today, Ankara is the political heart of Turkey, hosting the Grand National Assembly, the Presidential
Palace, ministries, and foreign embassies. Beyond politics, it is also a vibrant cultural hub. The city is
home to universities, theaters, concert halls, and museums, including the Museum of Anatolian
Civilizations, which showcases artifacts from prehistoric Anatolia to the classical era.
One of Ankara’s most iconic landmarks is Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. This
monumental structure not only honors the founder of modern Turkey but also serves as a symbol of the
country’s secular and republican values.
Economy and Modern Growth
Ankara’s economy is diverse, combining government administration, education, defense industries, and
commerce. It has developed into a major center for Turkey’s aerospace and defense sector, with
companies producing military equipment, aviation technologies, and software. The city also thrives in
agriculture and livestock, continuing its legacy as a producer of Angora wool, honey, and wine.
The rapid expansion of the city since the mid-20th century has transformed Ankara into a modern
metropolis. Wide boulevards, planned districts, and contemporary architecture reflect its role as a
capital built for governance and growth, rather than trade alone.
A City of Contrasts
What makes Ankara unique is its blend of the old and the new. In the historic district of Ulus, visitors can
explore Roman ruins, Ottoman-era bazaars, and traditional houses. Just a short distance away, in Kızılay
and Çankaya, the city displays its modern face with skyscrapers, shopping centers, and bustling nightlife.
This contrast reflects Turkey’s broader balance between tradition and modernity.
Conclusion
While it may not have the same international fame as Istanbul, Ankara stands as the soul of the Turkish
Republic. It is a city of history, resilience, and progress—where ancient civilizations once thrived and
where the modern Turkish nation was born. For visitors and citizens alike, Ankara represents not just a
capital city but a symbol of Turkey’s identity and future.
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