A Journey Through Time: The Heart of Ankara

As a former university professor with a deep-seated passion for European history, I have always been drawn to the stories that ancient architecture tells. My recent journey to Ankara, Turkey, was no exception. The city, a sprawling modern metropolis, is a fascinating blend of Roman and Turkish medieval architectural structures. My wife and I embarked on the Ankara Walking Tour, eager to explore the layers of history that have shaped this remarkable city.

Our tour began in the heart of the Haci Bayram district, where the Haci Bayram Mosque stands as a testament to the city’s rich Ottoman and Early Republican heritage. Built in the 15th century and renewed in the 18th, the mosque is a beautiful example of Seljuk architecture. As we stood in its shadow, our guide shared stories of Haci Bayram Veli, the revered Sufi saint in whose honor the mosque was built. The air was thick with history, and I couldn’t help but feel a deep connection to the past.

The Roman Legacy: Temple of Augustus and Column of Julian

Our next stop was the Temple of Augustus, a relic from the Roman period that dates back to the 2nd century BC. Constructed after the conquest of Galatia by Emperor Augustus, the temple is a remarkable piece of antiquity. As I walked among the ruins, I imagined the bustling life of ancient Ankara, a city that has been a crossroads of civilizations for millennia. The temple’s inscriptions, though weathered by time, still speak of the power and influence of the Roman Empire.

Nearby, the Column of Julian stands as a solitary sentinel, commemorating the Roman emperor Julian’s visit to Ankara in 362 AD. Locals refer to it as “Belkıs Minaresi,” or “the Column of the Queen of Sheba,” a name that adds an air of mystery to this ancient monument. As I gazed up at the column, I was reminded of the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire and its impact on the world.

The Timeless Citadel: Ankara Castle

Our journey concluded at Ankara Castle, a fortress that has stood the test of time. Built by the Galatians atop a hill in Ulus, the castle offers a panoramic view of the city and its ever-evolving architecture. As I wandered through its ancient walls, I marveled at the layers of history embedded in its stones. The castle is a living testament to Ankara’s strategic importance throughout the ages.

The Ankara Walking Tour was a captivating journey through time, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich tapestry of history. From the Ottoman splendor of the Haci Bayram Mosque to the Roman grandeur of the Temple of Augustus and the enduring strength of Ankara Castle, each site told a story of a city that has been at the heart of empires. For those who share my passion for history and architecture, Ankara is a destination that promises to inspire and captivate.