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Ankara is the bright capital of Turkey, overshadowed by the hustling and bustling popular cities like Istanbul, but this capital city carries a history, culture, and modernity that give it a whole new definition for the traveler to discover and experience. Here, in this blog, we shall expand on the many aspects of Ankara that make it such an amazing city to visit, especially for those on European tours looking for a unique destination. From ancient sites down to present-day museums, from the loud buzz of the culinary scene to beautiful parks, Ankara offers culture and experience. Whatever your area of interest—be it historic sites, fine Turkish food, or even green open spaces—all promise to make Ankara memorable.
From the perspective of history, Ankara holds significance. The city has a history from the earliest times. And for those taking tours in Turkey looking to experience the wealth of history, the historical adventure of this city can be explored through historical monuments such as Ankara Castle, which remains even in Roman times. This castle stands on a high hill and from its position gives extensive views all over the city and the surrounding areas. At the same time, as one enters this castle, one is faced with structures, which evidence the different empires that ruled and governed the city, from Romans and Byzantines, making it a fantastic point to begin understanding the strategic place this city holds.
Another essential historical site in Ankara is the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, located in a beautifully restored caravanserai. The museum houses a glaring collection of artifacts from the ancient civilizations of this region such as Hittites, Frigians, and Assyrians, and gives a glimpse of a people who lived several thousand years ago. As part of your Europe Travel Guide, there is also the mausoleum of Atatürk (Anıtkabir), which is a solemn tribute to the founder of the Republic of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Besides honoring his legacy, this mausoleum has been a symbol of modernization and independence for the nation.
Another bright feature of the identity of Ankara is the richness of its culture. There are many theatres, opera houses, and concert halls that showcase local Turkish and international performances. One of the highlights that tops the tourists' list of cultural sights during their International tours is the State Opera and Ballet, which presents a calendar full of operas, ballets, and concerts all year round. The building also has the advantage of the Turkish Grand National Assembly Cultural Center, which regularly organizes cultural events, serving as one of the major venues for such performances within the city.
Of course, for art enthusiasts, there is no better place in the city than CerModern. This is where Turkish and international contemporary art exhibits; also, this is where people in the city mingle in the creative context. The many festivals, like the Ankara International Film Festival and the Ankara Music Festival, can be credited to the rich cultural scene in Ankara, bringing together production from different countries around the world to create interactions of what local and international cultures are like.
Ankara is the capital city of Turkey, yet it is relatively verdant with many parks and natural places, making it one of the top things to do in Ankara for nature lovers. For example, Gençlik Park is one of the biggest and most common parks in the center of the city and an oasis in the heart of Ankara. It is made for scenic walking, with special activity areas like playgrounds and ponds; thus, it is great for relieving people from the urban hustle and bustle. A visitor may find himself walking for hours along tree-lined paths, having a picnic by the lake, or just relaxing in the park's atmosphere. If you want something much quieter than that, try out the Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo, which is very much about being close to nature and exploring organic farms while observing various animal species.
This green space also has some exhibits on crops, mainly for dairy and meat production, thus making it a quite relaxing experience combined with a learning aspect for families. Whether it is the small secluded garden or the large land park, Ankara's green spaces have a richness of opportunities where people might be able to freshen up, savor the surroundings, and recharge.
Ankara is so well endowed with heritage that it caters to local markets as well as state-of-the-art shopping malls, making it one of the best places in Ankara for shopping, serving anyone's taste and preference. Now, one might think of visiting Kocatepe Market, and it is a must-see. This kind of market has all the traditional Turkish items: from finely crafted rugs and textiles to spices and local jewelry. The market is so busy as it is a hub for what one might think of as souvenirs and authentic Turkish products. One could see people wandering around stalls and finding things that are reminiscent of the country.
If you want more modern management for shopping, go to Tunali Hilmi Street. The High Street is full of boutiques, cafes, and shops that sell almost everything: clothing and accessories, as well as electronics. To complete the luxury shopping experience, there is also everything for top-end shopping mall lovers at Cepa Mall and Atakule Mall. So, whether you just want to buy some local handicrafts or prefer to satisfy your taste for designer items, Ankara's shopping has something for every price class and shopping mood.
Ankara is a city that promises history to modernity to the visitor. It offers on his or her find adventures to all those who come within its ancient ruins, art, dishes, or even green spaces. With warm hospitality and a buzzing atmosphere, this hidden gem in Turkey has every right that more people should be put on their list of travel destinations. So, the next time you're planning a trip, don't forget to visit Ankara.
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