Ankara Castle

Ankara Castle is one of the symbols of the capital and has a history as old as itself. The castle, which existed when the Galatians settled in Ankara, was restored during the Roman period, but it is not known exactly when it was built. The inner and outer castle, which consists of two parts, was shaped by the construction of the inner walls by the Byzantines in the 7th century. The castle, which was damaged during Byzantine attacks, was repaired again in the 9th century. The date of addition of the outer walls is uncertain.

Two years after the Battle of Manzikert, the Seljuks captured the region and expanded and restored the castle. The castle is located on the hill right next to the Hatip Stream, the symbol of Ankara. The castle, which has more than 20 towers, surrounds Ankara in the shape of a heart with its outer walls. The inner castle has four floors and is made of Ankara Stone and collected stones. The inner castle has two large gates, called the Outer Gate and the Fortress Gate. An inscription belonging to the Ilkhanids is located on the Outer Gate.

The inner castle consists of 42 pentagon-shaped towers, 14-16 meters high. An inscription showing the repairs made by the Seljuk ruler is located in the Northwest part of the castle. Today, many houses from Ottoman Ankara are preserved within the castle. Some of them have been restored and turned into restaurants, shops, etc. It is used as.