Facts for Kids

Ankara is the capital city of Turkey, located in the heart of the country 🇹🇷. It became the capital in 1923, replacing Istanbul. Ankara has a population of about 5.7 million people, making it the second-largest city in Turkey! The city is famous for its rich history and is a melting pot of different cultures 🌍. You can see old buildings, museums, and parks. Ankara is also known for being the center of government, where important decisions for the whole country are made ✉️.

Ankara has a well-organized transportation system 🚍. The city has a metro system that makes it easy to travel from one place to another. Buses and taxis are also available for getting around. The Esenboğa Airport connects Ankara to many cities in Turkey and around the world ✈️. If you're in the mood for a scenic ride, you can even take a train to other cities like Istanbul or Konya! The public transportation options are affordable and reliable, making it easy for everyone to explore the city!

Ankara's cuisine is delicious and offers many traditional Turkish dishes 🍽️! One popular dish is “Ankara Tava,” a delicious lamb and rice meal that is famous in the region. Don’t forget to try “Beypazarı Kurusu,” a crunchy bread that pairs well with tea ☕! You can also enjoy tasty meatballs called “kebabs,” served with fresh salad and rice. Ankara is also known for its sweets, like “baklava,” filled with nuts and honey 🍯. The city has many restaurants where you can experience these delightful flavors!

Ankara has a long history that goes back thousands of years! 🏺

It was first settled by the Hittites around 3000 BC. Over time, many different empires controlled the city, such as the Romans and the Byzantines. In 1071, the Seljuk Turks captured Ankara, and it later became part of the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, chose Ankara as the capital to help create a new government for the country 🇹🇷. The city has many ancient ruins that tell these exciting stories!

There are many exciting places to visit in Ankara! One famous spot is the Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk 🏛️. This impressive monument attracts many visitors every year. You can also explore the ancient Roman Temple of Augustus and the stunning Ankara Castle, which offers great views of the city 🏰. Don't miss out on the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, where you can see ancient artifacts! The city's parks, like Gençlik Parkı, provide fun places to play and relax 🌳.

Ankara is an important economic center for Turkey 💼. The city is home to many government offices, supporting jobs in administration and public services. It also has a growing industry in textiles, manufacturing, and technology. Several companies produce items like clothing, shoes, and machinery 🤖. Many agricultural products like grains and fruits also come from the surrounding areas, contributing to Ankara's economy! The markets in Ankara are bustling with local crafts and products, making it a great place for shopping! 🛍

️

Ankara is a cultural hub that showcases music, dance, and art 🎨! The city hosts many festivals throughout the year, like the Ankara International Film Festival 🎥, bringing together filmmakers from all over the world. The state opera and ballet also perform in Ankara, showing the importance of performing arts. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is a must-visit, displaying fascinating artifacts from Turkey's past. The city's rich heritage is celebrated in traditional dances, clothing, and music, making it a vibrant place to experience Turkey's culture! 🎶

Ankara sits on a high plateau surrounded by mountains ⛰️. The city is located about 350 kilometers from the coast and is known for its unique landscape. Ankara has cool winters with some snow ❄️, while summers can get hot with temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) or more! The city also gets some rain, especially in the spring and fall 🌧️. This climate makes it a beautiful place for parks and gardens. The nearby Ankara River adds to its charm, making it a lovely spot for outdoor activities!

Ankara is home to many important universities and research centers 🎓. The Middle East Technical University (METU) is one of the best in the country and attracts students from all over the world 🌍. Other notable universities include Hacettepe University and Ankara University. Many researchers study various topics, like engineering, biology, and even Ottoman history! The city encourages learning and has libraries, workshops, and special programs to help young students explore their interests 📚.