Ankara, the capital of Turkey, is a modern, vibrant city located in the country's Central Anatolia region. As the second-largest city after Istanbul, Ankara serves as the political, administrative, and diplomatic center of Turkey. It became the capital in 1923, following the foundation of the Republic of Turkey by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, whose mausoleum, **Anıtkabir**, is a major national monument and a key attraction in the city.
Historically known as Ancyra and later Angora, Ankara has ancient roots dating back to the Hittites, Phrygians, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The city's layered history is visible in its old citadel, Roman ruins, and traditional neighborhoods like Hamamönü.
Today, Ankara is home to the Grand National Assembly, government ministries, foreign embassies, and many universities, including Middle East Technical University (METU) and Ankara University. It also has a growing cultural scene with museums such as the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and modern performing arts venues.
Though more reserved and bureaucratic than Istanbul, Ankara offers a balanced mix of tradition and modernity, with wide boulevards, green parks, and a more organized urban structure. It is a city of national importance, symbolizing Turkey's secular republic and forward-looking identity.