Hamamönü wowing foreign visitors with its quiet charm of olden times

The history of Hamamönü neighbourhood goes far back from the era when Ankara became the capital city, and its core is believed to be built in antiquity. The neighbourhood has become a centre of tourism since the award winning restoration work was completed. In 2011 Hamamönü became an EDEN (European Destinations of Excellence) awarded destination, and became one of the most visited sites in Ankara by domestic and foreign visitors. Despite being a very centrally located neighbourhood in Ankara, it was insulated from the crowded and noisy life of a big city, and attracts visitors to its quiet charm of olden times. Hamamönü displays the structure of a neighbourhood of late Ottoman era and early days of Republic and the houses incorporate the features of Ottoman civic architecture. As a whole it presents a sample of old Ankara to its visitors. Alongside the houses restored so well to create a feel of visiting intricate streets of an Ottoman neighbourhood, there are major structures such as the Karacabey Hamamı (The bathhouse commissioned by Karaca Bey in 15th century), Taceddin Sultan Mosque, and Hacı Musa Mosque. Hamamönü was also renowned as the habitat of the significant politicians and artists of the early republic. For example, famous poet of the period Mehmet Akif Ersoy, lived in the neighbourhood and wrote the lyrics of Independence March, the national anthem of Turkey. His house was near the Karacabey Hamamı, and it was restored as a house of culture open to public in Mehmet Akif Ersoy Park Hamamönü is best defined as one of the the busiest centre of arts and crafts in Ankara with many cultural activities taking place. Along the Sanat Sokağı (Arts Street) visitors could observe artists and crafts people working on their traditional arts and have an opportunity to purchase their creations as souvenirs. On weekends live music and audio-visual shows are available in Hamamönü and while it could be enjoyed throughout the year, the best time to visit is Ramadan period, when fasting month festivities and diverse activities are held every evening. Hamamönü takes its visitors through a journey back in time, and provides opportunities to enjoy diverse cuisines of various regions. There are many shops, cafes and patisseries where visitors could enjoy a cosy meal in a friendly atmosphere. Hamamönü is in the boundaries of Altındağ County in central Ankara and easily accessible.