Museum of Anatolian Civilizations

Anadolu Medeniyetleri Müzesi

Located in Ankara's restored Ottoman caravanserai, this world-class museum houses one of the world's finest collections of Anatolian artifacts spanning from the Paleolithic to Ottoman periods. It's essential for understanding the region's rich archaeological heritage, including Hittite treasures and early Bronze Age artifacts.

Things to do

• Explore Hittite Treasury — Examine one of the world's most significant collections of Hittite artifacts including sphinxes, reliefs, and cuneiform tablets from the Bronze Age empire.
• View Çatalhöyük Exhibits — Study artifacts and reconstructions from one of humanity's earliest urban settlements, dating back 9,500 years, featuring pottery and figurines.
• Examine Paleolithic Tools — Observe some of the oldest human implements and stone tools on display, spanning hundreds of thousands of years of early human activity in Anatolia.
• Admire Ottoman Caravanserai Architecture — Appreciate the restored 16th-century Mahmut Paşa Caravanserai's courtyard, arches, and traditional architectural details that frame the museum experience.
• Study Early Bronze Age Kingdoms — Learn about the Akkad, Ur III, and Old Babylonian period through cylinder seals, weapons, and trade goods that reveal regional connections.
• Discover Lydian and Phrygian Artifacts — View objects from these important Iron Age civilizations including jewelry, vessels, and inscriptions that bridge classical and ancient Anatolian worlds.

Food to try

• Ankara Tava — This slow-cooked lamb and vegetable stew with potatoes and tomatoes is a regional specialty often served in restaurants near the Old Town where the museum sits.
• Lula Kebab — Ground lamb kebab mixed with herbs and spices, grilled and typically served with pita and fresh onions, representing Ankara's kebab tradition.
• Çilingir Böreği — A crispy pastry filled with cheese and herbs, traditionally made by local bakeries in the Ulus neighborhood surrounding the museum.
• Ankara Pekmezi — A thick grape molasses syrup local to the region, often enjoyed with bread or nuts as a breakfast condiment or snack at nearby vendors.

Local customs & good to know

• Observe Quiet Museum Hours — Anatolia's museums are typically less crowded in early mornings and mid-week, allowing for more contemplative viewing of delicate ancient objects.
• Dress Respectfully — While the museum is secular, modest clothing is respectful when visiting this cultural heritage site in central Ankara's traditional quarters.
• Hire a Local Guide — Many knowledgeable guides specialize in Anatolian archaeology and can provide context about civilizations and artifacts that significantly enhances understanding.
• Visit Old Town Context — Explore the surrounding Ulus district's narrow streets, traditional shops, and other historical sites to understand how ancient Ankara's geography shaped settlement patterns.