Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
Central Anatolia Region
The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, situated on the south side of Ankara Castle in the historic Atpazarı district, is housed in two significant Ottoman buildings: the Mahmut Paşa Bedesteni and Kurşunlu Han. Established with the vision of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk to create a museum dedicated initially to the Hittite civilization, it evolved into a comprehensive institution representing Anatolian history from the Paleolithic age to the Ottoman era. The museum's exhibits are arranged chronologically, featuring artifacts from key archaeological sites such as Karain, Çatalhöyük, Alacahöyük, and Boğazköy (Gordion). Its collections include rare gold, silver, glass, marble, and bronze works, as well as an extensive coin collection illustrating the evolution of currency from the first minted money to modern times. The museum is internationally recognized, having been awarded the European Museum of the Year in 1997. Kurşunlu Han serves as the administrative and research center, while the Mahmut Paşa Bedesteni hosts the main exhibition halls under its distinctive domes. Visitors experience a journey through Anatolia’s civilizations, exploring the cultural and historical layers that shaped the region.
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Tip: The museum is open daily from 08:30 to 17:30, with the ticket office closing at 16:45. It is advisable to visit in the morning to avoid crowds and to fully enjoy the extensive exhibits. Visitors can benefit from the Museum Card valid for Turkish citizens, which offers access to multiple museums. Audio guide services are available to enhance the experience. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Nearby attractions include Ankara Castle with panoramic city views and other museums such as the Rahmi M. Koç Museum and the Erimtan Archaeology and Art Museum, which hosts evening concerts.
Interesting facts
- •The museum was the first in Turkey to be awarded the European Museum of the Year in 1997.
- •The Mahmut Paşa Bedesteni was built between 1464-1471 by Mahmut Pasha, a vizier of Mehmed II the Conqueror.
- •The museum houses artifacts from over a dozen major Anatolian archaeological sites, including Çatalhöyük, one of the oldest known human settlements.
- •Its coin collection spans from the earliest minted money to modern currency, representing a rare cultural treasure.
- •The museum buildings were originally an Ottoman covered bazaar and caravanserai, repurposed after extensive restoration for museum use.
History
The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations traces its origins to 1921 when the first museum was established in Ankara's Akkale section of the castle.
Inspired by Atatürk's vision to create a Hittite museum, artifacts from across Anatolia were gathered in Ankara, necessitating a larger space.
In 1936, the Mahmut Paşa Bedesteni and Kurşunlu Han, two Ottoman-era buildings, were acquired and underwent extensive restoration from 1938 to 1968 to serve as the new museum premises.
The museum opened partially to the public in 1943 and reached its current form by 1968.
It became renowned for its comprehensive chronological presentation of Anatolian civilizations and was honored as the European Museum of the Year in 1997, the first Turkish museum to receive this award.
Place Guide
Mahmut Paşa Bedesteni1464-1471
An Ottoman covered bazaar built in the 15th century, featuring 10 domes and 102 shops originally used for trade, now serving as the main exhibition hall showcasing Anatolian artifacts.
Kurşunlu Han15th century
Originally an Ottoman caravanserai, this building now functions as the museum's administrative center housing research rooms, a library, conference hall, laboratory, and workshops.
Exhibition Halls
Chronologically arranged galleries presenting artifacts from the Paleolithic era through the Ottoman period, including notable collections from Hittite, Phrygian, Urartian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Seljuq civilizations.
Contact
Phone: (0312) 324 31 60
