Ankara is the capital of Turkey, and is one of the largest, most populated city centers in the entire European-Asian continental region. After Istanbul, it is the second largest city in the country. It is an important industrial and commercial center in the region, and has been for hundreds of years. In fact, historically Ankara is an ancient city, with connections to Hittite, Phrygian, Roman, Byzentine, and Ottoman eras. There are many excellently preserved sites that harken back to these times, and make up part of the more popular tourist destinations in the city. Travelers to will find many cheap holidays to Turkey as well as Anakar are available.
One of the most popular tourist destinations is the Temple of Augustus and Rome, known as Monumentum Ancyranum. This temple is truly ancient, having been built around 25 BCE after the Roman Empire defeated the Anatolia region. The Temple is notable for its inscriptions on the wall which recount the deed of Augustus, who was the first Roman emperor. The region goes back much further in time – its origins can be traced back to the Hatti civilization, which started during the Bronze Age. Persia eventually took over the civilization as it grew into a large city and important economic zone. After the Greeks developed the trading center around 300 BCE, it expanded further.Other archaeological sites that are worth visiting are the Roman Baths, which is typical of the era being built around 3rd century CE. Another Roman ruin is that of the Roman Theatre, of which the stage and backstage remain. There are also several historical Islamic mosques, such as the famous Kocatepe Mosque, which is the largest in the area. However, the oldest mosque is the Alaaddin Mosque, built in the 12th century by the Seljuq ruler, Mesut.
Historically, the region surrounding Anakara was known for its production of high quality rabbit's fur, which was named after the old city name: Angora. Another fur product was Ankara goat wool, called Mohair. This region in Turkey is also well known for its grape and wine production, specifically the regional Kavaklıdere wine, which is celebrated for its dry and bittersweet, fruity quality. Another famous regional product is Ankara Balı honey, which is known for its light color and flavors.
The Ankara region has a typically continental climate, with hot, dry summers. Due to its higher elevation and inland location, it also experiences cold and snowy winters. Precipitation occurs mostly during the spring and autumn, and is considered semi-arid. The average winter temperatures are around 32 degrees Fahrenheit, and in the summer around 73 degrees Fahrenheit, making summer the most pleasant time to visit this beautiful, historically meaningful city.
