Ankara, Capital metropolitan municipality in Central Anatolia Region, Turkey
Ankara is the capital of Turkey in the central Anatolian region, sitting at an elevation of 938 meters (about 3078 feet) between two major rivers. The climate brings cold, snowy winters and dry, hot summers, while the city spreads across an expansive plateau.
The ancient settlement of Ancyra had been a crossroads for different cultures and empires across Anatolia for centuries. After the founding of the Turkish Republic in 1923, it was chosen as the new capital to shift the political center from Istanbul into the interior.
The city shows itself in teahouses and restaurants where people gather over traditional dishes like döner kebap, which originated in its modern form here. In the streets, modern business districts and government buildings shape daily life, while local markets still offer fresh produce and regional specialties.
The public transport network connects different districts through metro lines and buses, while high-speed trains also reach other Turkish cities. Travelers should note that distances within the city can be large, and using public transport is often necessary.
The region gave rise to three distinct animal breeds with soft, long fur: the Angora cat, Angora goat, and Angora rabbit. These animals were bred over centuries and carry the name of the city in its old form, Angora.
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