Ankara, Turkey
The Turkish capital all-too-often gets over-looked in favor of Turkey’s Mediterranean beach resorts, but those looking to discover the country’s rich history will want to add Ankara to their itineraries too. From an award-winning archeological museum to Turkey’s most important mausoleum; here are a few of Ankara’s best museums.
1. Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
Former winner of the Best European Museum award, Ankara’s Museum of Anatolian Civilisations ranks among the capital’s top attractions, with its enormous permanent collection taking visitors on a journey through Turkish history. Artifacts date back as early as Paleolithic and Neolithic times, and span Greek, Roman and Lydian periods, with highlights including a rich collection of Hittite era artworks and a coin collection that includes some of the world’s first minted coins.
2. Ethnography Museum
Ankara’s Ethnographic Museum was the original burial site of Atatürk and his legacy is still honored by the striking bronze statue that dominates the building’s white-marble façade. Even more impressive is the museum’s huge collection of art and artifacts from Turkish history, including a vast collection of Turkish pottery and porcelain; carpets, furniture and carvings dating back to the Selcuk period; weaponry and armor from the Ottoman Period; and folklore costumes and instruments.
3. Ataturk Museum
Few historic figures are as revered in Turkey as Ataturk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, and one of Ankara’s most important monuments is the Ataturk mausoleum, a dazzling stone and marble tomb perched on a hilltop overlooking the city. As well as Ataturk’s tomb, the mausoleum is also home to the fascinating Ataturk Museum, a fitting tribute to the “Father of the Turks,” filled with letters, photographs and personal effects that offer insight into his heroic military victories, presidency and family life.
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