Food
The culinary tradition of Ankara is a delicious fusion of Central Anatolian and Ottoman cuisine. One can only visit this city by tasting the famous Ankara Tava, a local lamb stew with a generous amount of garlic and spices. The breakfast table in Ankara is incomplete without Simit, a sesame-encrusted circular bread, and Börek, a delicious pastry packed with either cheese or meat. The city is also renowned for its fresh seafood, thanks to its proximity to the Black Sea.
Don't miss the chance to try döner from Ankara's street vendors. This well-liked quick meal consists of well-spiced meat arranged in an upside-down cone shape and slowly roasted on a vertical spit. It's usually served on bread with various fresh and pickled vegetables.
Sample the delightful baklava or try tavuk göğsü, a sweet milk pudding made with chicken breast for dessert. Enjoy a cup of traditional Turkish tea or a glass of rakı, a famous anise-flavored spirit, to wash it all down.
Culture
Ankara, despite its modern cosmopolitan character, has a rich cultural heritage. The city embraces traditional Turkish customs and Western influences, creating a unique cultural blend. The people are warm, welcoming, and eager to share their customs with visitors.
Folk dance and music are deeply ingrained in Ankara's culture. One of the most popular forms is the halal, a lively traditional group dance. In addition, Turkish classical music and Arabesk music, a fusion of Middle Eastern and Western pop music, are popular.
Handicrafts are a significant part of the city's culture. Mainly, Ankara is renowned for its Angora wool and cat products, made from the local breed of Angora rabbits and cats.
Turkish, belonging to the Turkic family of languages, is Ankara's primary and official language of communication. However, English is widely understood and spoken, especially among the younger population and in tourist areas.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ankara is spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). The weather is agreeable, allowing you to partake in outdoor activities without the discomfort of harsh summer heat or the cold bite of winter.
- Dress Code: Ankara is a cosmopolitan city, so Western-style clothing is prevalent. However, modest clothing is advisable out of respect for local customs, particularly when visiting religious sites.
- Safety: Ankara is generally safe for tourists, but as in any large city, it's advisable to take standard precautions, such as avoiding deserted areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings.
Interesting Facts
- Ankara was historically known as Ancyra and Angora, where the Angora cat, Angora rabbit, and Angora goat originated.
- Ankara became the capital of Turkey in 1923, replacing Istanbul due to its central location within the country.
- Ankara has the second-largest parliamentary building in the world, the Grand National Assembly of Turkey.
- The city is home to one of the world's oldest marketplaces, the Grand Bazaar, dating back to the 15th century.
- Ankara has more than 50 universities, making it a central hub for education in Turkey.
Top Places
- Anıtkabir: The mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. The monument'smonument's architectural beauty and historical significance make it a must-visit.
- Ankara Castle: Dominating the skyline, this fortification offers a panoramic view of the city. In the castle, you'll find old houses, restaurants, and artisans' shops.
- Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: Awarded as one of the best museums in the world, it houses collections from the various civilizations that thrived in Anatolia.
- Atakule Tower: A 125-meter tower offering an excellent view of the city. The revolving restaurant at the top is a popular spot for a meal.
- Kızılcahamam Soğuksu National Park: A nature lover’s paradise on the outskirts of Ankara. It'sIt's a perfect spot for hiking and picnicking, offering a break from the city hustle.
Whether you're a food enthusiast, a culture explorer, or a history buff, Ankara has something for everyone. Be sure to take the time to explore all that this beautiful and diverse city has to offer.
