Istanbul is one of the most visited cities in the world. Many people wrongly assume that this famous global city is the capital of Turkey. However, this pretty coastal city actually lost that official title more than 100 years ago. If you are wondering about the real capital of Turkey, you are certainly not alone.
What is the Capital of Turkey?
The capital of Turkey (officially Türkiye) is Ankara. The national government of Turkey officially gave Ankara this highly important title on October 13, 1923. Many young students face this tricky map question each year. Learning this key fact helps in expanding your knowledge. Let us explore the great story behind this unique inland capital city.
Ankara plays a vital role in the governance of Turkey, as it hosts the country's major national assembly, numerous foreign embassies, and several large government office buildings. These key daily functions easily make it the clear ruling core of the entire nation.
When was Turkey Republic founded?
Nationalist leader Mustafa Kemal Atatürk founded the modern Republic of Turkey on October 29, 1923. He strongly wanted to move the new free government away from the fallen Ottoman Empire. Therefore, the capital was moved from Istanbul to Ankara.
This central inland spot offered much better military defense for the new national government leaders. It also stood proudly as a bright symbol of a fresh start for the nation.
When did Ankara become the capital of Turkey?
Ankara was named the capital of Turkey on 13th October, 1923, just 16 days before the formation of the Turkish Republic.
Why was Ankara chosen as the Capital of Turkey?
During World War I, enemy military forces posed an easy threat to the coastal city of Istanbul. Istanbul sits directly on a wide open water channel known as the busy Bosphorus Strait. To survive future wars, national leaders badly needed a safe, secure mountain fortress.
Large protective mountains naturally surround Ankara, which rests very safely deep inside the inland region. This rocky natural shield helped keep the brand-new national government very safe from harm. It made it nearly impossible for foreign navy ships to attack the new capital city.
Beyond basic military safety, Atatürk sought to build a modern, fully free new republic. He deliberately moved his new government away from the old, corrupt Ottoman Empire kings. These past rulers governed from very rich and fancy coastal palaces in Istanbul. Moving the capital city to Ankara showed a total and complete break from the past.
Ankara also sits in a very central spot inside the massive Anatolian flat highland. This smart map location brought the new government much closer to everyday rural farm citizens. It helped unite a broken nation after the harsh and long Turkish War of Independence.
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Interesting Facts About Ankara
The following are 5 interesting facts about the capital of Turkey, Ankara:
1. Ankara ranks as the second-largest city in the entire country, right behind Istanbul.
2. Local farmers shear famous Angora wool from native rabbits and goats in this region.
3. The busy city currently houses over five million full-time residents within its borders.
4. Ancient Romans called the city Ancyra many long years ago during their ruling times. Visitors can still explore the old stone ruins of an ancient Roman temple there today.
5. Anıtkabir, a giant tomb building, proudly stands in the central city skyline of Ankara. This large structure serves as the final resting place of the famous founder and the first President of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the official capital of Turkey?
Ankara is the official capital of Turkey. The national government purposely chose it as the main political center back in 1923. This choice successfully shifted the locus of power away from the older cultural hub of Istanbul.
Why is Istanbul not the capital of Turkey?
Istanbul lost its capital status to help keep the new Turkish government safe from attacks. The founders wanted a secure inland spot to prevent naval ships from reaching the leaders. This major political shift also marked a clear end to the era of the older Ottoman Empire.
What is the difference between Istanbul and Ankara?
Istanbul serves as the historical, cultural, and financial hub of Turkey. It physically bridges the two large landmasses of Europe and Asia very effectively. In contrast, Ankara serves as the country's strict political and ruling center today. This modern capital city lies entirely within the central Anatolian region of the Asian continent.
Learning the history behind this capital reveals much about the modern nation of Turkey today. The shift to a secure inland republic shows a brilliant military vision by its founders.
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