1. The Capital of Ankara Has a Famous Goat Breed
The Angora goat, originating in the Turkish capital of Ankara, was featured on the back side of the Turkish 50 banknote from 1938 to 1952. This breed of goat is known for its long, soft, and silky fur, which is often used to make clothing and other textiles. The Angora goat is native to Ankara, and has been a part of the city's culture for centuries. The breed is also popular in other parts of the world, and is kept as a pet or for its wool.
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Advertisement2. Turkish Angora Cats: Home in Ankara Region
The Ankara region is home to one of the oldest, natural cat breeds in the world - the Turkish Angora. This breed has been documented as far back as the 1600s, and is known for its long, silky white fur and blue eyes. The Turkish Angora is a highly intelligent breed, and is known for its playful and affectionate nature. They are also known for their agility and grace, and are often used in agility competitions.
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3. Ankara's Population Soars 86 Years in a Row
In 1927, Ankara was a small city with a population of only 75,000. Fast forward 86 years and the population of the Turkish capital has skyrocketed to an impressive 5,045,083. This remarkable growth is a testament to the city's development and success over the years, and is a reflection of the city's increasing importance in the region.
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4. How Ankara Got Its Name
In 1073, the city of Ankara was first referred to as 'Angora', but it wasn't until 1930 that the official renaming of the city to 'Ankara' was made official under the Turkish Postal Service Law. This law was enacted to ensure that all mail sent to the city was correctly addressed, and the name 'Ankara' has been used ever since.
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Advertisement5. The Safe City with a High Road Safety Problem
The city of Ankara is renowned for its low crime rate, making it one of the safest cities in Turkey and Europe. However, road safety is still a major concern, with the number of traffic accidents increasing year on year. In fact, the number of fatalities due to road accidents in Ankara is higher than the national average, making it a priority for the local authorities to address this issue.
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6. The ancient city with a long and storied history
The ancient city of Ankara has a long and storied history, dating back to the Bronze Age when it was part of the Hattic civilization. According to Phygrian tradition, the city was founded by King Midas and named 'Ancyra'. Over the centuries, the city has been a major cultural and political center, playing a key role in the development of the region. Today, Ankara is the capital of Turkey and a vibrant modern city, but its roots remain firmly planted in its ancient past.
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7. Ankara's Gecekondu: A Short History of a Rapid Population Growth
In the 1950s, Ankara experienced a rapid population growth, leading to an influx of people seeking a better living situation. This resulted in the construction of many illegal dwellings, known as 'gecekondu', which were built without the necessary permits or planning permission. These dwellings were often constructed quickly, with little regard for safety or quality, and were often overcrowded. Despite this, they provided a much-needed solution to the housing crisis in the city.
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Advertisement8. Explore History in Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations in Ankara is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the region. Established in 1921, the museum houses artifacts from the second half of the first millenium BC, including sculptures, pottery, and jewelry. In 1997, the museum was awarded the prestigious title of 'European Museum of the Year' by Switzerland, a testament to its importance in preserving the region's history.
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9. Ankara's Alaeddin Mosque is a popular destination for visitors.
The Alaeddin Mosque, located in Ankara, is the oldest mosque in the city, having been built in 1178 AD (AH 574) by a prince of an Anatolian Seljuk Sultan during his reign. This impressive structure has stood the test of time, and is still a popular destination for visitors to the city today. The mosque is renowned for its intricate architecture, with its domed roof and minarets, and is a reminder of the city's rich history.
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10. Ankara's Urban Ropeway Opens
In 2014, Ankara became home to the largest urban ropeway on the Eurasian continent, boasting a 10-passenger gondola lift. This impressive feat of engineering is capable of transporting up to 10 people at a time, providing a unique and exciting way to explore the city. The ropeway is a great way to take in the sights of Ankara from a different perspective, offering stunning views of the cityscape and its surrounding areas.
