Museum of Anatolian Civilizations

Overview of the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations

The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations in Ankara is a premier archaeological museum that highlights the diverse history of Anatolia. Originally established in 1921 with the intention of focusing on Hittite artifacts, the museum has expanded its scope to include a wide range of civilizations such as the Paleolithic, Neolithic, Chalcolithic, Early Bronze, Assyrian Trade Colonies, Hittite, Phrygian, Urartian, Greek, Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuq, and Ottoman periods.

Historical Background

The museum’s inception was inspired by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s vision for a Hittite museum. The current buildings, MahmutpaÅŸa Bedesten and KurÅŸunlu Han, underwent restoration from 1938 to 1968. In 1997, the museum was honored with the European Museum of the Year award.

Getting There

Visitors can reach the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations by flying into Ankara EsenbočŸa Airport. From there, public transportation options such as buses and the metro are available, or visitors can opt for a taxi. The museum is situated near Ankara Castle in the Altč±ndačŸ district, making it accessible by foot from Ulus Square.

Key Attractions

• Exhibits spanning from the Paleolithic to Ottoman periods
• Artifacts from notable archaeological sites like Çatalhöyük and Alacahöyük
• A collection of gold, silver, glass, marble, and bronze works
• Extensive coin collections

Visitor Information

Ticket prices and opening hours can vary, but the museum is generally open daily, with extended hours during the summer. It is recommended to verify the latest schedules and ticket prices before planning a visit.

Visiting Tips

• Plan your visit according to the seasonal opening hours
• Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Ankara Castle
• Use an Ankarakart for convenient travel on public transport
• Consider purchasing a guided tour for deeper insights into the exhibits
• Be prepared for steep hills if walking from nearby sites