Citadel Ankara Kalesi

The imposing citadel (hisar), also called Ankara Kalesi, situated just up the hill from the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, took its present form in the 9th century AD when the Byzantine emperor Michal II constructed the outer walls. The inner walls date from the 7th century AD. Inside is a traditional Turkish village, parts of it under restoration.

Head straight along Kalekapisi Sokak and through the inner walls to find on your left the citadel’s small uninteresting mosque, the Alaettin Camii. It dates from 12th century but has been extensively rebuilt. To your right is a steep road leading to a flight of stairs to the Sark Kulesi (Eastern Tower), with panoramic city views. Although it is much harder to find, the tower at the north, Ak Kale (White Fort), also offers fine views. As you wander about the citadel, you will notice broken column drums, bits of marble statuary and inscribed lintels, all incorporated into the mighty walls. There are also some excellent modern restaurants inside the citadel.