Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, is a place where ancient history and modern significance converge. Located in the central part of Anatolia, this bustling metropolis is Turkey's second-largest city by population, with over 5.3 million residents in its urban center and 6 million in Ankara Province. Its strategic position at the heart of Turkey's road and railway networks has long made it an important commercial and industrial hub. Beyond its contemporary
role, Ankara's identity is deeply rooted in a rich past, shaped by numerous civilizations and its unique geographical setting.
Ancient Roots and Shifting Powers
The history of the Ankara region stretches back to the Bronze Age, beginning with the Hattic civilization. This early culture was gradually absorbed by the Indo-European Hittites between 2000 and 1700 BC, marking the start of a long succession of influential powers. The city experienced significant growth and increased importance under the Phrygians, starting around 1000 BC. A major expansion occurred following a mass migration from Gordion, the Phrygian capital, after it was severely damaged by an earthquake. Phrygian tradition venerated King Midas as the founder of Ancyra, though archaeological evidence suggests the city's origins are even older.Following Phrygian rule, the region came under Lydian and then Persian control. Despite these changes in sovereignty, the strong Phrygian character of the local peasantry persisted, a fact evidenced by gravestones from the much later Roman period. Persian dominance ended with their defeat by Alexander the Great, who conquered Ankara in 333 BC and briefly stayed in the city. After Alexander's death and the subsequent division of his empire, Ankara and its surrounding areas became part of Antigonus's share. Another period of significant expansion took place around 300 BC under the Greeks of Pontos, who developed Ankara into a vital trading center, facilitating commerce between Black Sea ports, Crimea, Assyria, Cyprus, Lebanon, Georgia, Armenia, and Persia. It was during this Hellenistic period that the city acquired its Greek name, Ánkyra, meaning 'anchor,' which is the root of its modern name.
A Crossroads of Empires and Cultures
Ankara's strategic location continued to attract various empires throughout history. After the Greeks, the city was successively ruled by the Galatians, Romans, and Byzantines. Each left their mark, contributing to the city's architectural and cultural tapestry. Well-preserved examples of Roman and Ottoman architecture can still be found throughout the city, particularly around its historical center. This center is a rocky hill that rises 150 meters over the left bank of the Ankara River, a tributary of the Sakarya River, and is still crowned by the ruins of Ankara Castle.The Seljuk Turks annexed the city in 1073, after which it became known in many European languages as Angora. It was also referred to as Engürü in Ottoman Turkish. The name "Angora" has persisted in the names of various animal breeds, such as Angora rabbits (known for Angora wool), Angora goats (the source of mohair), and Angora cats. The area is also recognized for its pears, honey, and Muscat grapes. This long history of diverse rulers and cultural influences has shaped Ankara into a city with a unique heritage, reflecting centuries of interaction and transformation at the crossroads of civilizations.
