Museum of Anatolian Civilizations | Ankara

The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations (Anadolu Medeniyetleri Müzesi) in Ankara is one of Turkey's most important and culturally rich museums, showcasing the history and artifacts of Anatolia’s many ancient civilizations. It offers visitors a fascinating journey through the region’s diverse cultural and historical legacy, with exhibits covering prehistoric times through to the Ottoman era.

Location and History

Location: The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is located in the heart of Ankara, in the Old Bazaar district (also called Ulus). Its central location makes it easily accessible for visitors interested in exploring the ancient history of Turkey.

Historical Significance of the Building: The museum is housed in a historical building that dates back to the 15th century. Originally, the structure was used as a bedestan, a covered market for trade in the Ottoman period. In 1921, it was repurposed into a museum to house archaeological finds from the surrounding region. The building itself, with its high vaulted ceilings and classical Ottoman architecture, adds to the museum's historical charm.

Exhibitions and Collections

The museum's extensive collection spans several millennia and offers an in-depth look at the prehistoric, ancient, and classical civilizations that thrived in Anatolia (modern-day Turkey). The exhibits are thoughtfully curated to showcase the diversity of cultures and civilizations that once inhabited the region.

1. Prehistoric and Early Civilizations

Paleolithic and Neolithic Periods: One of the museum's most important sections covers prehistoric Anatolia, with artifacts from early human settlements. These include stone tools, pottery, and figurines that provide insight into the lives of the first humans who lived in the region.

Çatalhöyük: The museum has a special focus on Çatalhöyük, one of the world’s earliest and largest Neolithic settlements, located in central Turkey. The exhibit includes detailed reconstructions of homes, murals, and sculptures found at this significant archaeological site, shedding light on early urban living and religious practices.

Hittite Civilization: Another important section focuses on the Hittites, one of the most influential civilizations in ancient Anatolia. The museum has an impressive collection of Hittite stelae, tablets, and sculptures, including the famous King Muwatalli’s Statue and Hittite inscriptions. Visitors can learn about the Hittites' advanced legal systems, their cultural achievements, and their interaction with neighboring civilizations such as the Egyptians and Mesopotamians.

2. The Assyrians and Urartians

Assyrian Trade Colonies: The museum houses artifacts related to the Assyrian trade colonies, which were established in Anatolia around the 2nd millennium BCE. These include clay tablets, seals, and trade goods that were used in the commercial network between Assyria and the ancient Anatolian cities.

Urartian Artifacts: The Urartian civilization, which flourished in eastern Anatolia around the 9th century BCE, is also well-represented. The museum displays impressive Urartian bronze artifacts, weapons, and stone carvings depicting kings and gods.

3. Lydian Civilization

Lydia and King Croesus: The museum has an outstanding collection of Lydian artifacts, including gold coins, jewelry, and sculptures from the ancient kingdom of Lydia. One of the most notable items in the collection is the Lydian treasure, including precious gold pieces believed to belong to King Croesus, famous for his wealth and his fabled encounter with the philosopher Solon.

Coinage and Wealth: Lydians are credited with being the first civilization to mint coins. The museum exhibits several examples of Lydian coins, which marked a pivotal development in the history of money.

4. Phrygians and Hellenistic Period

Phrygian Artifacts: The museum showcases a selection of artifacts from the Phrygian civilization, which thrived in central Anatolia. Notable exhibits include the Phrygian tomb reliefs and decorated stone monuments that represent the Phrygian kings and their religious beliefs.

Greek and Hellenistic Influence: The museum also has displays from the Greek and Hellenistic periods, showcasing Greek pottery, sculptures, and inscriptions. Many of these pieces reflect the cultural exchange between Anatolia and the ancient Greek world during the classical era.

5. Roman and Byzantine Periods

Roman Influence: The Roman era is well represented, with many sculptures, sarcophagi, and inscriptions from the Roman period in Anatolia. The statue of the Emperor Augustus and other imperial busts offer a glimpse into Roman art and the empire’s reach across Anatolia.

Byzantine Artifacts: The museum also includes Byzantine-era items, such as mosaics, religious icons, and pottery that illustrate the continuity of Roman influence in the eastern Mediterranean after the fall of the Western Roman Empire.

6. The Islamic Period

Seljuk and Ottoman Artifacts: The museum also includes exhibits from the Seljuk and Ottoman periods, reflecting the rich history of Islamic civilization in Anatolia. The collection includes ceramics, calligraphy, and textiles that highlight the artistic and cultural achievements of these empires.

Special Exhibits and Events

Temporary Exhibitions: The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations frequently hosts temporary exhibits that focus on specific aspects of Anatolian or world history. These exhibits often feature objects from international collections and provide a more in-depth understanding of the cultural heritage of the region.

Educational Programs: The museum organizes various educational programs, lectures, and workshops aimed at raising awareness of Anatolian history and encouraging a deeper understanding of Turkey’s rich cultural heritage. These programs are especially beneficial for school groups and visitors looking to expand their knowledge.

Visitor Experience

Museum Layout: The museum’s layout is designed to lead visitors through the timeline of Anatolian history in a clear and informative manner. Each exhibit is well-labeled with both Turkish and English descriptions, ensuring accessibility for international visitors.

Museum Store and Café: The museum also features a gift shop where visitors can purchase books, replicas of artifacts, and local crafts. There is also a café where guests can relax and enjoy traditional Turkish refreshments.

Accessibility: The museum is fully accessible to visitors with disabilities, with ramps and elevators for easier access to all floors.

Conclusion

The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the ancient history of Turkey and the wider Anatolian region. Its impressive collection of artifacts, spanning thousands of years of human history, offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural and historical tapestry of one of the world’s oldest and most diverse regions. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student, or a casual visitor, the museum provides an unforgettable journey through the ancient civilizations that shaped modern-day Turkey.