Discover Hamamonu in Ankara: A Historic Neighborhood of Mosques & Ottoman Homes
Hamamonu is one of Ankara's most unique neighbourhoods, perfectly reflecting the city's history and cultural fabric from past to present. With its traditional Turkish houses dating back to the Ottoman period, historic mosques and handicraft workshops, this neighbourhood is like an open-air museum, showing visitors how Turkish culture was once lived. This special area, which you should definitely visit when you are in Ankara, offers an unforgettable travel experience with its unique architecture and warm people.
In this article, you can find all the details you need to know about Hamamonu 👇
Image Source: Kultur Portalı
The History of Hamamonu
The history of Hamamonu, one of Ankara's most established neighbourhoods, dates back to the Roman and Byzantine periods. However, it gained its true identity during the Ottoman Empire, when it became an important trade centre. The neighbourhood's bazaars, caravanserais, fountains and mosques are living witnesses to this historical process.
The most striking structure in the district is the Hamamonu Hamam, one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture. In addition, the traditional Turkish houses in the area are elegant examples of the architecture of the period. The district's religious life is also quite rich, as evidenced by its historic mosques. The bazaars that shaped Hamamonu's commercial life are still thriving today.
The most important of these is the Arasta Bazaar. It preserves its spirit from the past and continues to operate today. With its historical atmosphere, handicrafts, local delicacies and friendly people, Hamamonu is one of the living examples of Turkey's cultural heritage.
Places to Visit in Hamamonu
One of Ankara's most popular tourist destinations, Hamamonu is rich in history. As you stroll through its streets, you will encounter traditional Turkish houses, historic mosques and museums.
Hacı Bayram Mosque: Built in 1427, this mosque is one of Hamamonu's oldest and most important religious buildings. It is named after Hacı Bayram Veli, one of the most important religious leaders of the Ottoman Empire. The tomb next to the mosque is a particular attraction for visitors.
Tacettin Sultan Mosque: Built in the 16th century, this mosque reflects the Ottoman architectural style of the period. It attracts attention with its architectural details and spiritual atmosphere.
Hamamonu Bazaar: Located in the heart of the district, this bazaar is a paradise for those looking for souvenirs. You can browse the shops filled with handmade jewellery, pottery and handicrafts, and try local flavours in small cafés and restaurants.
Kırkçeşme Prayer House: One of the oldest buildings in Hamamonu, it was inspired by a fountain in Üsküdar. This structure, which houses a mosque and a prayer room, is an important stop both architecturally and historically.
Mehmet Akif Ersoy Museum House: This is the ideal place for those who want to learn about the life of Mehmet Akif Ersoy, the author of the Turkish national anthem, which holds a special place in the hearts of the Turkish people. This museum offers a wealth of information about the poet's life and works. It is also valuable for understanding the cultural values of the neighbourhood.
Things to Do in Hamamonu
After exploring the historical buildings, you can make your visit even more meaningful with the various activities offered in Hamamonu.
Exploring historical Turkish houses: The houses, with their dazzling wooden and stone architecture, have been carefully restored and opened to visitors. It is possible to trace the traces of the past in these houses.
Visiting handicraft workshops: Hamamonu is home to workshops where traditional arts such as pottery, leatherwork, copperwork and carpet weaving are practised. By visiting these workshops, you can see the intricacies of handicrafts and purchase unique products.
Tasting local delicacies: You can try unique flavours such as mantı, çiğ börek, yaprak sarma, keşkek and Ankara tavası at Hamamonu's restaurants. For dessert, pumpkin dessert, walnut baklava and semolina halva stand out. Enjoying the district's famous Turkish coffee alongside these treats offers a delightful experience.
Visiting historical mosques: For those who want to feel the spiritual atmosphere of the neighbourhood, Hacı Bayram Mosque and Tacettin Sultan Mosque are ideal stops. They are eye-catching with their Ottoman-era architectural structures.
Souvenir shopping: Hamamonu is rich in handicraft souvenirs. It offers a wide range of options, from jewellery to pottery, ceramics to hand-woven carpets. Traditional Turkish clothing and copper-engraved items are also popular products.
Eating and Drinking in Hamamonu
Hamamonu also offers a wide range of dining options. The area has restaurants serving local cuisine as well as pastry shops and cafes.
Ankara Tavası: This delicious dish made with lamb and vegetables is one of the neighbourhood's signature flavours.
Mantı: A classic of Turkish cuisine, mantı is served in many restaurants in Hamamonu in different ways.
Çiğ Börek: This snack, which contains minced meat, onion and spices, is especially preferred for snacks.
Yaprak Sarma: Leaf rolls, which differ according to their filling ingredients, are widely served in the restaurants of the neighbourhood.
Pumpkin Dessert: This traditional dessert flavoured with spices can be a sweet finale to your visit to Hamamonu.
You can also find souvenirs in the cafes in the neighbourhood and enjoy the atmosphere with a cup of Turkish coffee.
Accommodation in Hamamonu
Hamamonu also offers various alternatives in terms of accommodation. You can feel the historical atmosphere of the region more closely by staying in this neighbourhood, which offers boutique hotels, hostels and guesthouses. Staying in traditional Turkish houses offers an unforgettable experience.
When to Visit Hamamonu?
The best times to visit Hamamonu are spring and fall. During these seasons, the weather is neither too hot nor too cold, and the crowds are smaller, making your trip more enjoyable.
In the winter months, cold and snowfall can be effective, while in the summer months, visits can be more tiring due to the heat and crowds. However, it is possible to visit Hamamonu at any time of the year.
How to get to Hamamonu?
Located in the centre of Ankara, Hamamonu is very easy to reach. The main transportation options are listed below:
Bus: There are bus lines going to Hamamonu from many points in Ankara. You can also easily reach by buses departing from Kızılay Square.
Metro: Thanks to the metro lines in Ankara, transportation to Hamamonu is very practical. Kızılay station is the closest stop to Hamamonu. It is also possible to reach the neighbourhood by tram from here.
Taxi: Taxi transportation is quite common in Ankara. You can easily reach Hamamonu by using taxi stands or call centres.
Hamamonu is a unique stop for anyone who wants to explore Turkey's cultural heritage. With its historical houses, art workshops, religious buildings and delicious cuisine, this neighbourhood makes visitors feel the past and offers an unforgettable hospitality with its warm people. Hamamonu, one of the must-see places in Ankara, is a cultural valley where you will travel back in time.
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