Ankara is the capital and second largest city in Turkey. It is geographically located in the center of Turkey, and this strategic position determines the city's importance both historically and today. Located in the Central Anatolia Region, Ankara is built on a vast plateau with an average altitude of 938 meters. The city is surrounded by a series of hills running from north to south.
Ankara's climate is characterized by continental climate; summers are hot and dry, winters are cold and snowy. Especially in winter, temperatures can drop below zero. Rainfall is usually concentrated in the spring and fall seasons. Winds can be effective on the city and cold winds are felt especially in winter.
The vegetation of the city has a steppe character under the influence of continental climate. However, green areas have been created in many places with urbanization and landscaping works. Forested areas and parks around Ankara contribute to the green texture of the city.
Ankara's demographic makeup is diverse as it is home to government institutions. People from all over Turkey and many parts of the world come to Ankara for work and study opportunities. This increases the cultural diversity of the city and brings together people from many different cultures.
In terms of cost of living, Ankara may be more affordable than metropolitan areas such as Istanbul. Considering housing, transportation and basic needs, living in Ankara can be more affordable. Infrastructure and transportation facilities in the city are well developed. Metro, bus and minibus lines provide easy transportation within the city. Ankara is also centrally located for transportation to other cities in Turkey as it is located at the intersection of railway and highway networks.
Apart from the bureaucracy and government, the city's economy is also developing in the defense industry, information technologies, agriculture and animal husbandry sectors. In addition, various industrial facilities and organized industrial zones also make significant contributions to the city's economic structure.
Ankara is one of the most important cities in Turkey in terms of health services. There are many public and private hospitals, medical faculties and research centers. These institutions serve both the people of the city and patients from neighboring provinces.
Local cuisine is an important element reflecting Ankara's cultural richness. Local delicacies such as Ankara goat, beypazari kurusu and boiler dibi showcase the diversity of Turkish cuisine. There are also restaurants in the city serving all kinds of Turkish and international cuisine.
Sights worth visiting include sites of historical and cultural significance such as Anitkabir, Ankara Castle, Ataturk Forest Farm and the Ethnography Museum. Ankara's advantages include well-developed public services, strategic location, low cost of living and high educational standards. Disadvantages may include the harsh winter conditions brought about by the continental climate and sometimes heavy bureaucracy.