Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo
Central Anatolia Region
Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo is a large recreational farming area and zoological garden located in Ankara, Turkey. Established in 1925 by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the first President of the Turkish Republic, it was originally a private farm before being donated to the Turkish state in 1937. The farm includes several small agricultural farms, greenhouses, a dairy farm, a brewery, and restaurants where visitors can enjoy traditional foods and farm products such as beer, dairy, and kebabs. The zoo, founded in 1933, spans 32 hectares and houses a diverse collection of animals including big cats, birds, monkeys, apes, ungulates, snakes, and an aquarium. A notable feature of the farm is an exact replica of Atatürk's birthplace in Selânik, providing cultural and historical context. The farm is managed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Village Affairs and remains a popular destination for both recreation and education. The site has also been subject to recent political and legal disputes due to development projects on its land.
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Tip: The best time to visit Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. Visitors are encouraged to try the fresh dairy products and traditional dishes available at the Central Restaurant on-site. Purchasing tickets or planning visits during weekdays may help avoid crowds. Although the farm is open year-round, checking opening hours in advance is recommended. Discounts may be available for students or groups, so inquire locally. Advance reservations are not typically required, but for large groups or special events, contacting the administration beforehand is advised.
Interesting facts
- •The farm includes an exact replica of Atatürk's birthplace house in Selânik.
- •The Ankara Zoo breeds and sells Angora cats, a breed native to Turkey.
- •The farm was originally managed by Spiritual Christians from Russia noted for animal breeding, who declined to relocate to Ankara.
- •The farm produces traditional beer using old-fashioned methods.
- •The zoo covers an area of 32 hectares and was founded in 1933.
History
Atatürk Forest Farm was established in 1925 by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk as a private agricultural project to promote modern farming techniques.
In 1937, Atatürk donated the farm to the Turkish state to serve public and educational purposes.
The Ankara Zoo was added in 1933, expanding the farm's recreational and educational offerings.
Over the decades, the farm has grown to include various agricultural enterprises such as greenhouses, a dairy farm, and a brewery.
In recent years, parts of the farm's land have been involved in legal and political disputes due to construction of the Presidential Complex and proposed land sales.
Place Guide
Replica of Atatürk's Birthplacecirca 1881
An exact replica of the house where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk was born around 1881 in Selânik, providing visitors with historical insight into his early life and environment.
Ankara Zoo1933
A 32-hectare zoological garden housing a variety of animals including big cats, birds, monkeys, apes, ungulates, snakes, and an aquarium. The zoo also breeds the native Angora cat.
Agricultural Farms and Greenhouses
Several small farms and greenhouses within the complex demonstrate modern and traditional agricultural practices, showcasing a variety of crops and farming techniques.
Dairy Farm and Brewery
Facilities producing fresh dairy products and traditional beer, which visitors can sample at the on-site restaurants.
