Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, is the country's second-largest city after Istanbul. Situated in the Central Anatolia region, it is a significant commercial and political center, holding a strategic position as the heart of Turkey's government and diplomatic affairs. The city's history can be traced back to the Bronze Age, and it served as an important hub for several civilizations including the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Ankara boasts a variety of cultural institutions, including the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations which showcases artifacts from Turkey’s ancient past. The mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Republic of Turkey, known as Anıtkabir, is also located in Ankara and is a site of national significance. Ankara's urban landscape is characterized by its modern infrastructure interspersed with historic buildings, bustling markets, and sprawling parks. The city experiences a continental climate, with cold, snowy winters and hot, dry summers. Today, Ankara is a vibrant city blending traditions with modernity, and it is known for its wool, textiles, and production of Angora goats and rabbits.
