Ulus History Route

Route and Why This Order

This route fits two thousand years of Ankara's history into a single walk through Altındağ/Ulus. It begins at Ankara Castle, which overlooks the city; starting from the highest point and descending means ending the day with an easy walk down rather than a tiring climb up. Alaeddin Mosque within the castle, the oldest known mosque in Ankara, should be the first stop; right after, the Seljuk muqarnas mihrab of Aslanhane Mosque at the foot of the castle is visited. Coming down from the castle, Hacı Bayram-ı Veli Mosque and the adjacent Temple of Augustus are visited back to back; a religious structure and a Roman temple sharing the same courtyard makes Ankara's layered history tangible. A longer stop is recommended at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations (the Mahmud Paşa Bedesteni and Kurşunlu Han buildings). The route ends at the Çengelhan Rahmi M. Koç Museum and the Column of Julian at Hükümet Square.

Duration, Distance and Transport

The total walking distance between stops is about 3.2 km; with museum visits, the route takes 4-5 hours. The whole route can be covered on foot.

When to Go

Starting early in the morning helps avoid crowds at the museums and catches the clearest light on the castle walls.

Local Tip

Straying from the main tourist route into the castle's narrow side streets reveals quiet corners where traditional Ankara houses are still in use.