Ankara Castle (Ankara Kalesi) crowns the rocky heights of the Altındağ district, overlooking the Turkish capital’s Old Town. Perched on a steep hill of andesite and basalt, the medieval citadel is woven into the layers of Ankara’s story – from Hittite and Phrygian beginnings through the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, Ottoman and Republican eras. Today it stands as a testament to the city’s continuity, its battered walls a living exhibit of Anatolian history. As a major local landmark, Ankara Castle is widely regarded as one of the city’s oldest and most picturesque sights. Visitors who climb its worn alleys find not only sweeping views over modern Ankara and Atatürk’s Anıtkabir, but also a living “village” of traditional houses, mosques and shops preserved behind the gates. The castle is indeed “one of the capital’s oldest sights and a beautiful destination for visitors”, weaving together layers of history and everyday life in a compact and enduring fortress.

The Epic History of Ankara Castle

The story of Ankara Castle spans millennia, with each civilization leaving a mark in its stones. The first fortifications here likely date back to the Late Bronze Age – local tradition credits the Hittites or even King Midas’s Phrygians with the original hilltop stronghold. After the Galatians (Celtic tribes) arrived around 278 BC, they seem to have rebuilt the citadel to defend their new capital of Ancyra. During the Roman conquest of Anatolia in the 3rd century BC, Ancyra and its fortress became part of the province of Galatia. Inscriptions and medieval chronicles confirm that the Romans repaired and reinforced the walls; after a Persian invasion in 622 AD smashed the defenses, Byzantine Emperor Constans II and his successors restored the inner citadel in the 7th century and later built the enclosing outer walls around the 9th century.

Over the next centuries, the Byzantine citadel and city withstood Abbasid raids and Arab sieges, until the Seljuk Turks took Ankara in 1071. The Seljuks repaired and re-used the fortifications, leaving inscriptions and towers that still stand. In 1403 the castle fell to Timur, and after Timur’s withdrawal it passed into the hands of local beys. The Ottomans captured Ankara in 1354 and later made the castle part of their Anatolian defenses; Sultan Bayezid II’s son Kasım rebuilt inner walls in the late 15th century to quell local rebellions. By the 19th century the castle had lost its military importance, but still served as a base for Ottoman troops. In 1832 the Ottoman governor Ibrahim Pasha ordered a comprehensive restoration of the walls and towers, repairing centuries of damage.

With the founding of the Turkish Republic in 1923, Ankara Castle took on a new symbolic role. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk himself noted its significance; he arranged for the highest Seljuk tower (Akkale) to host the nation’s first museum (the “Eti Museum” of Anatolian archaeology) in 1921. The castle thus became not just a relic, but a patriotic shrine. After 1948 the museum moved out, but the site was declared a protected historical area. In 2020 the citadel quarter was extensively renovated by Ankara authorities, restoring old houses and squares as living museums of early Republican life.

Through all these changes, Ankara Castle retained its layering of eras. A 17th-century traveler, Evliya Çelebi, vividly recorded its appearance: “There is a solid fortress made of white quartz stone on a tall mountain in Ankara. The castle is surrounded by walls that extend three stories high… The inner castle is surrounded by a second series of walls. There is a third outer wall on the slopes of the mountain”. This description – three concentric rings of defense – reflects the castle’s mixed ancestry. Archaeologists can even read the chronology in the masonry: Roman-era stones anchor the lower walls, while Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman repairs are layered above. In short, each generation has restored and re-used the fortress in turn, making Ankara Castle a walking museum of Anatolian history.

Colorized photograph of Ankara Castle’s rocky heights in the 1950s, with Ankara’s old town below. The steep citadel (center) bears scars of its many eras: the lower walls are Roman, higher sections rebuilt by Byzantines and later Turks.

Architectural Marvels: Deconstructing Ankara Castle

Ankara Castle is in fact two connected citadels: the inner fortress (İçkale) at the summit, and a larger outer wall (Dışkale) encircling the lower slopes. The Inner Castle (İçkale) occupies the topmost summit of the volcanic ridge. This compact core, roughly 350 m by 150 m, forms the oldest nucleus of the fortress. Within its high walls one finds the citadel’s most ancient relics – the remains of the once-towering Akkale (White Tower), built by the Seljuks, and older medieval towers. The inner castle contains a jumble of Ottoman-period houses, caravanserais and mosques clustered in its narrow, twisting alleys. Walls here rise in places nearly vertically out of the rock, and medieval embrasures and loopholes are still visible in the stonework. Particularly in the lower layers of the inner enceinte, one can see large, squared Roman blocks and column fragments embedded in the walls – scavenged from nearby temples and structures after the Persian destruction of 622 AD. In other words, the fabric of İçkale literally incorporates the ruins of the city’s ancient past.

The Outer Castle (Dışkale) forms an irregular ring around the hill’s base, enclosing the historical Old Town (Kaleiçi) neighborhoods. These walls are broader and lower than the inner walls, and were built chiefly by the Byzantines and Ottomans to defend the sprawling citadel village. A prominent outer gate is the Finger Gate (Parmak Kapısı, also called Saatli Kapı or Clock Gate). At this entry lies an inscription (a tax code from the 14th century İlhanid ruler) and a white octagonal clock tower added by the French in 1885. The walls here zigzag around the lower slopes, punctuated by tall bastion towers spaced roughly 40–60 meters apart. One traveler counts over twenty towers on the outer line and around forty-two towers on the inner line. The fortress walls stand up to 14 m tall in places (around 46 feet) and are built of local stone rubble and spolia; Ottoman restorers even used pieces of broken marble sarcophagi as filler in the masonry. The polygonal towers, often topped with crenellations, gave the complex a “sawtooth” outline from afar.

Inside the outer walls sprawls the old hilltown of Kaleiçi. Between the Dışkale and İçkale lie maze-like alleys of traditional Ankara houses, small inns (hans), and merchant courtyards. These built features give the castle a dual nature: one enters through a medieval gate into a lived-in historic quarter, and then climbs further to the inner stronghold. The architecture of the houses here reflects vernacular Ottoman Ankara style: ground floors of thick masonry with small windows (for winter warmth), upper floors of wood with wide eaves and “cihânnüma” bay-windows (for summer comfort). Many buildings date to the 18th–19th centuries, often painted with pastel colors and featuring the broad, carved roofs typical of old Ankara homes.

One can still see the layers of reconstruction in the walls themselves. In the outer ramparts, stone blocks neatly cut and laid in Roman fashion occupy the footing; above these are courses of roughly squared Byzantine masonry; higher up, one finds irregular Ottoman-era repairs. At several points, huge column bases and capitals jut out from the wall, visible signs of reused temple and civic architecture. Even the rough-hewn stones of the lowest curtain were once part of a Roman temple on the plain below. This spoliated fabric tells the castle’s story: it was never built in one era, but continuously rebuilt, repurposed and patched up as needed.

Steep Ankara houses and the fortress wall rise above the Old City. As 17th-century traveler Evliya Çelebi noted, the tall hill was “surrounded by walls that extend three stories high,” enclosing first the inner citadel and then an outer ring of defense.

Planning Your Visit to Ankara Castle: A Practical Guide

Ankara Castle is freely open to the public and requires minimal advance planning – but a few practical details will ensure a smooth visit. How to get there. The castle sits on a rocky hill, so the easiest approach is from the Ulus neighborhood. Visitors can take city buses (routes 16 or 64) to Ulus Square, then walk up narrow streets (approximately 15 minutes) through Hamamönü and Divan Street to the Citadel gate. Alternatively, take the Metro (M1 or M2 line) to Ulus station and walk about 1 km westwards uphill. For those preferring not to hike, taxis can drive closer to the top (divan sokak) for a small fare. Drivers should note that free parking lots lie at the base of the hill (near Koca Mehmet Paşa Camii); parking on the narrow cobbled streets is difficult.

Opening hours and fees. The castle has no entry charge and is open daily. In practice, it is accessible from shortly after sunrise until late afternoon (roughly 08:00–17:00 year-round). Note that the gates sometimes close around sunset, so plan to arrive by mid-afternoon in winter. No tickets are required. The various historic mosques inside (e.g. Alaaddin Camii) may have separate visiting hours for worshippers. At the fortress entrance one finds an old watchtower and a small visitor center – though most tourists simply walk freely into the complex. (If arriving very early or very late, remember that this is a residential quarter, so be respectful of neighborhood residents.)

Best time to visit. Ankara has a continental climate: winters are cold and windy, summers very hot. Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) bring pleasant temperatures, making the uphill walk more comfortable. On a clear day you can see for miles – so sunrise and sunset afford dramatic vistas. Many visitors time their ascent for early morning light or late afternoon, when the low sun paints the old walls golden. Afternoon tours often finish with a stroll to a café in Hamamönü (at the foot) for traditional Turkish tea. Summer days can be scorching on the hillside; in winter bring a coat, as the wind here is raw. The crowds in Ankara are generally light compared to Istanbul, but weekends and Turkish national holidays can draw a steady trickle of local families and school groups.

Accessibility. The hill is quite steep and the cobbled streets uneven. Those with limited mobility should be aware that the upper inner citadel is not wheelchair-accessible. However, the first level of walls (at Divan Street) has been equipped with ramps and terraces that allow nearly anyone to enjoy panoramic views. In fact, tour operators note that wheelchair ramps give access to some of the fortifications, enabling most visitors to sample the spectacle. Parents with strollers should know the climb is uphill; once on the walls, though, the path is mostly flat and broad. What to wear. Dress comfortably and modestly for climbing: sturdy walking shoes and layers are advised. Loose cotton clothes and a hat will be welcome in summer. Inside the castle quarter, dress guidelines are casual; there is no requirement for head-covering except if you enter any of the working mosques (e.g. Alaaddin Camii in İçkale). As the castle is an open-air site, sunscreen and water are wise essentials.

Top 10 Things to See and Do in and Around Ankara Castle

1. Walk the Ancient Ramparts. A foremost activity is simply traversing the castle walls from end to end. The outer ring offers a 360° panorama of modern Ankara – from the distant spires of Kocatepe Mosque to the distant sky-scrapers. The commanding Eastern Tower (Şark Kulesi) and the remains of the White Tower (Akkale) in the inner citadel provide especially sweeping views. Along the ramparts, note the reused Roman stones and column fragments built into the wall surface. Touch the weathered battlements and imagine the defenders of old. Climbing to the highest points rewards you with a true appreciation of the site’s strategic perch.
2. Explore Kaleiçi – the Old Town Quarter. Much of the citadel area is not ruins but a living quarter. Meander through the narrow alleys and courtyards of Kaleiçi, the traditional neighborhood enclosed by the walls. Here two- and three-story wooden Ankara houses huddle together under wide eaves. Peek into quiet courtyards and soak in the ambience of Ottoman-era urban life. Many of these houses now serve as art galleries, craft shops or small inns. Don’t miss the restored Divan Çukurhan – an 18th-century caravansaray now hosting a restaurant and hotel – its courtyard often alive with conversation and tea-sipping locals. The inner portion of Kaleiçi (İçkale) contains several historic mosques with simple single-minaret architecture (Alaaddin Camii, Ramazan Camii, etc.) that testify to the medieval mosque-building tradition inside city castles.
3. Discover Hidden Courtyards and Historic Houses. Behind the walls lie unexpected sights. Tucked up near the inner castle are small open squares that once hosted Ottoman bazaars – At Pazarı, Saman Pazarı and Koyun Pazarı. Today these cobbled squares still bustle with shops and cafés. Look for old inns such as Kurşunlu Han and Safran Han (now cafés or museum annexes) that hint at the site’s trade past. In the inner castle zone, narrow alleys lead to the secluded Çengel Han (an Ottoman-era caravanserai) which now houses the Rahmi M. Koç Industrial Museum branch; visitors can step inside its courtyard to admire stone arches and glimpses of period storage cells. Many of the small houses of Kaleiçi are painted in pale yellows or oranges with carved wooden balconies – keep your camera ready for these photogenic scenes.
4. Attend a Cultural Event or Festival. The castle environs occasionally host cultural performances and art events, especially during the summer. The stone plaza near Divan Street (the old bazaar area) has held folk music concerts and dance evenings. In recent years the Ankara Municipality has staged small festivals here featuring traditional Anatolian music or outdoor art installations. If visiting at the right time, you might catch a local band playing in the citadel square, or a guided night tour on full moon evenings. Check in advance for events: the week-long Ankara Foundation Culture and Arts Festival (usually in late summer) sometimes includes shows in historic Ulus venues, and the castle makes for a memorable backdrop.
5. Watch the Sunset Over the City. Few things match the view of Ankara at sunset from the walls. As the sun dips, the city below turns golden while the silhouette of the citadel’s towers and the Turkish flag (flying over Akkale) creates a dramatic contrast. The fortress is less crowded in late afternoon, making it an ideal quiet moment. Many itineraries advise pairing a castle visit with Hacı Bayram Veli Mosque at dusk – from the castle walls you can actually glimpse the minarets of that nearby shrine to the east. Bring a camera or simply linger and watch Ankara’s lights begin to twinkle.
6. Take a Guided Tour: Unlocking the Castle’s Secrets. Although most of the castle is freely accessible, guided tours can add rich context. Local guides often recount the legends and facts about the site’s layers. They point out subtleties such as the epigraph on the Fortress Gate and the secret tunnels that once led from the citadel to the city (one passage is said to run under Divan Street). A guide can explain the markings on the stone, the stories of the Ahi guild mosques (Arslanhane, Ahi Elvan) lying on the outer hill, and point out well-hidden relics of the fort’s military past (such as cannonballs or anchors embedded in the base). Many castle guides will include Hamamönü’s restored houses and the Anatolian Civilizations Museum in a combined tour, giving a full half-day itinerary.
7. Ankara Castle at Night: A Magical Experience. When darkness falls, parts of the castle are illuminated for an atmospheric effect. The Finger Gate and Akkale tower are lit by spotlights, and the warm glow of interior houses spills onto the cobbles. Standing on the walls after sunset, one hears mostly the distant hum of traffic and the occasional echo of night owls in the town. It is peaceful and evocative. (Tip: the clock on the old gate is lit and makes a nice photo.) In winter, note that the castle closes at dusk, but in summer months it sometimes stays open into evening. Even if the gates are shut, you can walk around Hamamönü and Divan Street below to see the castle’s outer silhouette against the sky.
8. Photography Hotspots: Capturing the Perfect Shot. Photographers will find many angles. From the outer wall, one can frame the Old Town houses rising on the hillside with the flag flying above. Inside, the Finger Gate itself makes an iconic shot – a stone arch topped by an Ottoman inscription and, after dark, a glowing clock. For panoramic cityscapes, climb to the top of Akkale (now a terrace) or the nearby Eastern Tower. Another popular vantage is the Divan Çukurhan terrace courtyard: shooting back toward the castle gives the impression of Ankara rising up from the buildings. If you cross the street in front of the castle, the hill looks especially dramatic from a distance – the illuminated walls at night or the silhouette of jagged battlements by day. (Always watch your step; the uneven stones have tripped more than one traveler as they focus on framing a shot!)
9. Family Fun: Engaging Activities for Children. Ankara Castle can be surprisingly child-friendly. The novelty of “climbing a real castle” appeals to many kids. Families often let children run along the safe pedestrian walls (supervised by an adult) while the little ones peer over to spot the city below. Inside Kaleiçi, children delight in the small squares and cafés – there are bakeries selling simit (sesame bagels) or gözleme (savory filled flatbreads) that make easy snacks on the go. Along Divan Street and inside the fortress, one can sometimes find local artisans demonstrating crafts (weaving, woodworking) – interactive curiosity-points for young minds. Parent visitors should note that there are no playgrounds, but the historical feel itself is captivating. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations (at the castle’s base) has child-friendly exhibits of Hittite and Roman artifacts that many families enjoy either before or after the castle visit.
10. Relax and People-Watch in a Traditional Coffeehouse. After exploring, it’s a delight to end the visit as locals do – over tea or coffee. There are a few atmospheric cafés clustered on the east side of the old town (near the Divan Çukurhan) and in Hamamönü below. Cultural tip: Sit by a window or outside patio and watch everyday life unfold. You’ll see elderly men playing backgammon or sipping çay; children chasing each other in the alleys; shopkeepers in Saman Pazarı calling out to each other. This human tapestry is part of the experience. For a special treat, try Turkish coffee at a shop in Kaleiçi or any pastry shop selling warm lokma or revani. When strolling back through the winding streets, look out for quaint details – a hanging Ottoman lantern, hand-lettered signs, an old turquoise-tiled window. These quiet moments, watching local life against the backdrop of ancient walls, are an essential part of the Ankara Castle experience.

The Museum Quarter: A Treasure Trove of Anatolian History

Just below Ankara Castle lies one of Turkey’s greatest archaeological museum areas. The most famous is the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, housed in a restored Ottoman madrasa at the foot of the citadel. This museum spans prehistory to the Ottoman era, with dazzling artifacts – Hittite stone sculptures, Urartian bronzes, Phrygian treasures and Roman statuary – that tell the story of Anatolia’s entire human history. Its location literally on castle grounds underscores the continuity: one can descend from the walls directly into a collection covering the same 7500-year span. Plan at least an hour here to marvel at the sarcophagi, the gilded Mycenaean-style gold, and a frieze from King Telepinu’s palace.

Adjacent to the Anatolian Civilization Museum, two smaller institutions await. The Museum of the Turkish Language (Kelime Müzesi) opened in 2022 right across the street, in a renovated historic house. Its focus is linguistic and cultural, with interactive exhibits on the development of written Turkish, folk poetry and Anatolian dialects – an unusual but enriching complement to the archaeological focus next door.

Down the hill on Gözcü Sokak is the Çengelhan Rahmi M. Koç Museum (opened 2021). Çengelhan was once an Ottoman inn and caravanserai; today it is an industrial and transport museum under the Koç family’s aegis. It showcases vintage Anatolian cars, restored steam engines and exhibits on Turkey’s rail and communications history. The grand old courtyard of Çengelhan and its surrounding rooms make an atmospheric setting for these displays.

One must also mention the Erimtan Archaeology & Art Museum, a private collection tucked between the Anatolian Civilizations Museum and Çengelhan. Established in 2015 and housed in traditional Ankara mansions, Erimtan’s collection (circa 2,000 items) spans Anatolian history from 3000 BC through Byzantine times. It is often overlooked by tourists, yet its artifacts (including rare Greco-Roman and Ottoman pieces) reward those who venture in. Because Erimtan is literally between the two larger museums, a visitor can easily pop inside – many guided tours of the Museum Quarter note it in passing.

Other attractions in Altındağ include the Temple of Augustus and Rome (an Augustan-era temple on Ulus Square, a few blocks southeast of the castle). Built around 25–20 BC, its surviving walls preserve the famous Monumentum Ancyranum – the text of Augustus’s Res Gestae engraved in Latin and Greek. Though not inside the castle, it lies within walking distance and is a worthy quick stop for history buffs.

Together, these museums make the castle area a day-long cultural hub. One can ascend the castle in the morning, then descend into millennia-old galleries before dining with a view. Keep in mind the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations has its own entrance fee (though free for museum-pass holders) and excellent facilities. The Rahmi Koç and Erimtan museums charge separate modest fees. Each museum has a gift shop selling replicas and books in case you want a keepsake beyond the obvious castle trinkets.

A Culinary Journey Around Ankara Castle: From Street Food to Fine Dining

The Ankara Old Town has blossomed into a dining destination. Along the base of the citadel and in Kaleiçi’s winding lanes, visitors can sample both rustic home cooking and refined Ottoman-inspired fare. Traditional Turkish delights abound: on a casual stroll you will encounter gözleme vendors (hot flatbreads filled with cheese or spinach), kebab grills and baklava stands. Many shops offer sweet pastries made with local specialities like Pumpkin dessert (“kabak tatlısı”) or Yöreya Çorbası (a spicy carrot soup indigenous to Ankara). For a savory centerpiece, look for Ankara Tava – lamb and rice with orzo, a local casserole dish – or kokoreç (grilled lamb intestines, sliced thin), which is particularly popular here. Near Hamamönü and Ulus one finds several classic “Ocakbaşı” grills where kebabs sizzle on skewers.

For sit-down meals, there is a surprising range of restaurants. The restored caravanserais themselves serve good food: Divan Çukurhan (inside Çukurhan) has an upscale menu of Ottoman specialties (including excellent baklava and revani). Nearby Safranhan is now part of the Divan hotel complex and offers a fine dining Ottoman-turkish cuisine experience (its terrace commands views of the castle walls). In Kaleiçi you will also find more humble but beloved spots: Kebapçı Emin Usta (drab exterior, lively interior) is famed for its charcoal-grilled kebabs, while Kuru Sirkeci is a popular pide (Turkish pizza) house. The travel blog “TravelSetu” recommends several local picks: Tarihi Ankara Kalesi Divan Restoran (known for mantı and köfte), Kale Evi Restaurant (casual spot for gözleme and lahmacun) and Uludağ Kebapçısı (traditional meat dishes).

Cafés and tea houses in Hamamönü and along Kale Kapısı Street serve lighter fare. A common sight is the small round “kahve masa” (coffee table) set up for endless çay (Turkish tea). Sit down with a glass of tea or Turkish coffee and perhaps a plate of kurabiye (shortbread cookie). At one of these open-air cafes, you can watch the world drift by – old men playing tavla, children chasing a ball, vendors calling out. If the weather is nice, consider grabbing a kebab wrap or Anatolian salad and finding a bench in Kale Park (Altındağ Park) at the citadel’s foot – a quiet shaded space with fountains.

For a special evening, some hotels and restaurants near Kızılay (2–3 km away) offer panoramic rooftop dining with city views, but within the castle quarter itself the most unique “view” meals are at cafés tucked into the stone mansions. Look for tables spilling onto narrow alleys under the walls. One favorite, Kale Evi, has a tiny garden courtyard perfect for quiet afternoons. Always ask locals or your guide for the newest places; the old town’s culinary scene has been growing and small gems often open unadvertised.

Shopping in the Old City: A Bazaar of Handicrafts and Souvenirs

The area around Ankara Castle retains a hint of the medieval bazaar tradition. In Kaleiçi and its approach lies a network of small shops and narrow lanes that would have been traders’ quarters centuries ago. Today these shops specialize in local crafts and antiques. Saman Pazarı (also known as Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu) is an outdoor bazaar street running down the hill from the castle’s gate. Here you’ll find stalls of copperware, lanterns, rugs, scarves and pile of old metalware. The copper items – cazve (coffee pots), teapots, trays – are particularly prominent, reflecting Anatolia’s old copper-smith tradition. Antiquarians set out old furniture, kilims and silverware, while textile vendors display embroidered pillow covers and table runners.

Behind Divan Çukurhan, a row of boutiques sells handmade jewelry, leather goods and olive-wood souvenirs. A little way up the hill is Pirinç Han, a restored two-story caravanserai now housing numerous antique shops and craft boutiques. You can roam Pirinç Han’s covered arcade, stepping from one tenant’s collection of vintage ceramics to another’s handcrafted jewelry or hand-blown glassware. Just downhill lies Bakırcılar Çarşısı (the Coppersmiths’ Bazaar) at the bottom of Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu, where dozens of shops display every kind of tinplated and hand-engraved copper pot and pan. This section of Kaleiçi is often compared to the Kapalıçarşı in mini form – a couple of twisting alleys of vendors you can lose yourself in.

The Geleneksel El Sanatları (GES) store is also in Altındağ, located near the Hacı Bayram mosque (a few blocks from the castle). It is a government-run outlet for high-quality handicrafts. Here one finds Aegean pottery, Meerschaum (lületaşı) pipes from Eskişehir, intricate embroidery and Ankara’s famous rounded carpets. The shop maintains consistent quality and fixed prices, so it’s a good spot for authentic souvenirs without haggling. Be aware that in the smaller shops of Kaleiçi, bargaining is expected. Locals advise starting at about half the initial asking price and meeting in the middle; big purchases like antique rugs may come with no haggle.

In short, strolling these shops is like a living museum visit. Products are not mass-produced; instead they recall Anatolian crafts passed down through generations. Do remember to carry cash, as most vendors only take lira. Shopping here is part of the castle experience – with each souvenir bag the visitor carries home a piece of the castle’s old-world atmosphere.

Beyond the Walls: Exploring the Wider Altındağ District

While the citadel proper is the star, the surrounding Altındağ district has plenty to offer. A short walk down the hill from the castle’s gate lies Hamamönü, the restored Ottoman neighborhood. Once centered around an old Turkish bath (hamam) – hence the name – this area is now a charming pedestrian zone of wooden houses converted into cafes, cultural centers and boutique shops. Hamamönü’s winding streets (Su, Kadı, Uz) are lined with cute teahouses and handicraft shops, all set amid lovingly restored 18th–19th-century architecture. It shares the castle’s Ottoman vibe, and it’s only 500 m from the fortress walls. Many itineraries suggest starting or ending a castle visit here over breakfast or dinner. The centerpiece is the Hacı Bayram Veli Mosque, a venerable 15th-century shrine surrounded by cafes – a great spot for a twilight stroll.

At the base of the hill and beyond, Kale Park (Kalebaşı Park) offers green lawns and playgrounds with a view of the citadel. Perfect for families, it has benches under chestnut trees and a small pond. From here one can picture the castle soaring above. A bronze statue of Nasreddin Hoca sits nearby, a whimsical Ottoman folk hero of Ankara.

Other Altındağ sights include the old Ulucanlar Prison (now a Justice Museum) and a few smaller mosques and hammams scattered in the valleys. The entire district still feels “old Ankara” – one of the few parts of the city where fragments of ancient monuments (like marble columns by the road) can be seen amid modernity.

For those looking for modern amenities, Altındağ has its share: Ulus Square, the commercial center just below the castle, has hotels, restaurants and shopping malls. If Castle visitors need an upscale dinner or luxury lodging beyond the old town charm, the nearby Divan Çukurhan Hotel (formerly the caravanserai) is one option. Otherwise, Kızılay (3 km away) is Ankara’s main hotel district (featuring brands like Sheraton and Wyndham), with convenient metro access back to the castle. Budget travelers may find small pensions in Hamamönü and Ulus (such as the Angora House or Murat Zade Konagi, listed on travel sites) that put them right on the hill.

In summary, Altındağ allows visitors to experience not just the castle but the living context around it – a blend of Ottoman heritage (Hamamönü) and the modern capital buzzing just beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Ankara Castle

Is Ankara Castle worth visiting? Absolutely. Ankara Castle is a unique heritage site: it provides sweeping views over the capital and immerses visitors in centuries of history. As one travel article notes, the castle is “one of the capital’s oldest sights and a beautiful destination for visitors”. Beyond its scenic panorama, the castle’s authentic old houses and bazaars give a taste of traditional Ankara life that can’t be found elsewhere. Most visitors leave feeling they have had a window into Turkish history and an escape from the city’s modern parts.

How old is the castle in Ankara? The exact foundation date is unclear, but the citadel’s core is ancient. Archaeological and historic sources estimate the first fortress appeared in the late 5th century BC. According to Turkish historical commissions, early construction dates to roughly 476–33 BC, which likely refers to Greek, Galatian and Roman-era building phases. Thus the site has been fortified for about 2,500 years. Many of the stones you see were reused in later periods, but the castle’s antique pedigree is unquestionable.

What is the history of Ankara Castle? The castle changed hands many times. After Galatians built the citadel in Hellenistic times, the Romans and Byzantines fortified it. In the Middle Ages it was held by Seljuks and Ottomans. Each ruler repaired and expanded the walls. By the 19th century the Ottomans still used it militarily. In the 20th century it became a symbol of modern Turkey and now is preserved as a national heritage site. (See above sections for a full timeline.)

Can you go inside Ankara Castle? Yes. The castle interior (İçkale) and the outer courtyard area (Kaleiçi) are open for walking. There are no locked doors or restricted zones for tourists – except that the very highest tower (Akkale) is closed for preservation. The public is free to roam all courtyards, alleys and ramparts. You do not need a guided tour or permission; just enter on foot through the main gate. Inside, you can pop into the old mosques and browse the little shops and galleries at leisure. The only limitations are access ramps for mobility – most of the inner citadel is reached only by stairs and ramps not built for wheelchairs.

How long does it take to visit Ankara Castle? Most guidebooks recommend allocating about 2–3 hours for a thorough visit. You can stroll the walls, explore the inner and outer areas, and even catch a cup of tea or a bite in between. Trip.com suggests “1–3 hours”. A quick look at the ramparts and one level of streets might take only an hour, but to fully appreciate the views, wander the houses, and perhaps combine it with a museum visit, plan on at least two hours. Families often stay longer, especially if children want to play in the courtyards or if you combine it with adjacent museums.

Are there any museums inside Ankara Castle? Not in the sense of a standalone major museum building within the walls. The fortress quarter is primarily residential and religious. However, some historic caravanserais and mansions within the castle walls have been converted into small museum exhibits. For example, part of the Kurşunlu Han houses the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations (accessed from outside the castle), and the Çengelhan inside the inner walls now serves as a branch of the Rahmi M. Koç Museum. But these are better accessed from the base or foot of the castle rather than up top. In practice, one visits the main museums (Anatolian Civilizations, Erimtan, Rahmi Koç) just outside the gates. Inside the castle itself, visitors mainly see houses, mosques and old inns, not gallery displays.

What is the entrance fee for Ankara Castle? There is none. Castle entry is free for all visitors. The Turkish government maintains the citadel as a public space. You will never need a ticket or pay at a booth. (Note: the cafés or hotels within the walls will of course charge for food or lodging, but simply being on the castle grounds is free.) The only fee you may encounter is a small parking charge if you leave a car at the base parking lot.

What are the opening hours of Ankara Castle? The site is open daily, roughly from around 08:00 until 17:00 (and later in summer). The gates typically close around dusk. In winter months (November–March) it closes a bit earlier due to sunset. An itinerary guide confirms: “The castle is open every day, from 8 am till 5 pm.”. The inner mosques inside the castle may have more limited hours for prayer, but the walls and streets are always accessible in daytime.

What’s the address of Ankara Castle? If using GPS or maps, enter “Kale, 06240 Altındağ/Ankara, Türkiye”. This will bring you to the castle’s foot in the Kaleiçi quarter. It lies just north of Ulus Square. For navigation, many simply search for “Ankara Kalesi” on map apps – it consistently appears as the historic castle on the hill.

What attractions are near the castle? Several notable sites cluster here. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is directly to the west of the citadel (a 2-min walk). The language museum (Kelime Müzesi) is next to it. Continuing a block downhill leads to the Ahi Serafettin Mosque, then the famous Hacı Bayram Veli Mosque in Hamamönü. The Altınpark and Gençlik Parkı are a bit further south if you venture 1–2 km from the castle, but within easy cab distance. For dining or lodging, the Hamamönü cafes and boutique hotels line the nearby streets. The castle area itself has few hotels inside the walls, but the Divan Çukurhan is a combined hotel/restaurant on site. Other nearby hotels (Angora House, Hamit, Butik 24) are a short walk away in Ulus.

What restaurants are near Ankara Castle? The castle quarter is surprisingly well served for dining. As mentioned above, Divan Çukurhan and Safranhan (the caravanserai inns) offer Ottoman and Turkish gourmet menus. A block down the hill, local spots like Kebapçı Emin Usta and Kuru Sirkeci serve traditional meze and kebabs with loyal local followings. Smaller cafes in Hamamönü (such as Kale Cafe) do light snacks and gözleme with castle views. A short taxi ride to Ulus offers dozens more options. For a quick treat, don’t miss tasting a piece of revani (semolina cake with syrup) or Ankara simidi (sesame bagel), both specialty sweets often sold near the castle.

Is Ankara Castle accessible for wheelchairs or strollers? Partially. The uphill cobbles and steps inside the citadel make full wheelchair access impossible. However, the main outer ramparts (Divan Street level) have been fitted with ramps and viewing platforms so that visitors in wheelchairs can still enjoy the key sights. Parents with strollers may manage the lower level areas and Divan Street, but will likely have to carry strollers when climbing the steep alleys inside the inner castle. In other words, the wide open areas at the base of the fortress are accessible, but the twisting inner paths are not fully equipped for wheels.

Conclusion: Why Ankara Castle is the Heart and Soul of the City

Ankara Castle is more than just a pile of stones on a hill; it is the beating heart of old Ankara and a living monument to Turkey’s rich layers of history. Standing at its summit, one feels both the sweep of centuries – from Hittite warriors to Ottoman caravans – and the enduring spirit of the city below. The castle’s stone walls and narrow lanes exude a sense of continuity: children play on the same cobbles where merchants haggled in the Middle Ages; a Turkish flag now flies where ancient standards once waved. In many ways, the castle embodies the meeting of past and present.

For the curious traveler, its appeal lies in this depth: a visit is not a shallow snapshot but a full immersion in Anatolian life. The fortress’s ramparts give epic views and perspective on the city’s scale. Its inner quarters offer a slice of Old Town daily life – tobacco clouds curling from cafés, families chatting in courtyards, artisans at work. And the museums at its base ensure that Ankara Castle is not only an attractive ruin but the gateway to understanding thousands of years of civilization.

In short, Ankara Castle is the soul of Ankara made tangible. It invites exploration at every turn – history buffs can trace the architectural phases in the walls, while photographers capture the interplay of stone and sky. Yet it also rewards idlers and romantics: to rest on a shaded terrace of a Hamamönü café and watch the castle come alive in the sunset light is to feel at home in this ancient place. This blend of gravity and warmth is what makes Ankara Castle a must-visit. It is not merely a destination, but a storyteller – and every visitor walks away carrying a piece of its enduring narrative.