One of the most memorable places I visited in Ankara was Anıtkabir, the grand resting place of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of modern Turkey.
And when I say grand… I mean grand. This isn’t just a mausoleum — it’s a vast ceremonial complex complete with statues, sweeping courtyards, a long ceremonial road, and a museum filled with Atatürk’s personal belongings and stories from Turkey’s history.
One unexpected fun fact? He had a passion for Lincoln cars — and three of them are proudly displayed there. Who knew the father of the republic had such stylish taste?
While I was there, I caught the changing of the guards. Very serious. Very precise. And slightly theatrical — one guard marched around and every fifth step he dramatically slammed his foot down with a resounding thud. It definitely kept us all paying attention!
Adding to the atmosphere, diplomats were visiting that morning, which meant certain areas were temporarily off-limits. Security was everywhere, giving the whole place an even greater sense of importance and ceremony.
It’s easily one of the most significant places to visit in Ankara — powerful, imposing, and filled with history… with just a little unexpected stomp for flair.
