Are you tired of Ankara's modern pace, grey buildings, and endless hustle, and looking for an escape that will instantly transport you back 100 years? If your answer is yes, we invite you to the cobblestone streets of Hamamönü, a time capsule hidden in the heart of the capital. This is not just a place lined with restored old houses; it's a living, breathing cultural oasis where history, art, and mouth-watering flavors intertwine. In this guide, we have compiled the most delightful stops on the list of things to do in Hamamönü for you. Get ready for an unforgettable journey from restored mansions to the heart of our national history, and on to fragrant coffee stops!

Walk among restored 19th-century Ottoman houses

The moment you step into Hamamönü, the first thing that greets you is a unique atmosphere that seems frozen in time. On one side, there are two-story mansions with bay windows and wooden frames; on the other, the cobblestones you feel under your feet... This is an open-air museum where you can see the most elegant examples of 19th-century Ottoman civil architecture. The architecture of the houses whispers subtle clues about the social life of the period. The inner courtyards that maintain privacy without cutting off contact with the outside world, and sections like the selamlık (men's quarters) and harem (women's quarters), reveal the family structure and daily life of that era.   

Have you ever wondered where this historic district gets its name? Hamamönü takes its name from the historic Karacabey Hamam (Turkish Bath), built in 1440 by Celalettin Karacabey, one of the commanders of Sultan Murad II. So, as you wander these streets, you are witnessing not only 19th-century mansions but a much deeper history. Thanks to the meticulous restoration work by the Altındağ Municipality, these once-ruined structures have been reborn from their ashes, and the area has become one of Ankara's most important cultural tourism centers.   

This revitalization project has not only saved the buildings but has also breathed new life into them. The best example of this is the Art Street, where restored houses have been allocated to artists and craftsmen. Here, you can watch masters of traditional handicrafts such as marbling (ebru), ceramics, and calligraphy at work, and buy unique souvenirs from their workshops. This street is proof that history is not just a preserved object but also a living and productive source of inspiration. After soaking in the unique atmosphere of Hamamönü, you will surely find inspiration for Ankara's other historical treasures waiting to be discovered.

Drink Turkish coffee on sand in a historic mansion

When the steps you've taken through history leave you with a sweet fatigue, it's time for one of the most authentic experiences Hamamönü has to offer: Turkish coffee brewed on sand. This isn't just about drinking coffee; it's about witnessing a ritual. The wonderful aroma of the coffee, slowly brewing in copper pots (cezve) buried in hot sand right before your eyes, will instantly captivate you.

So, what makes coffee brewed on sand so special? The secret lies in the slow and balanced brewing technique. The pot, buried in the sand, receives heat evenly from all sides. This allows the coffee to brew perfectly, without burning, preserving its aroma and essence. It gives time for the coffee and water to infuse perfectly, resulting in a rich, velvety flavor with plenty of foam. Even this moment of waiting is a wonderful opportunity to take a break from the speed of modern life and savor the moment.   

The best places to have this unique experience are the authentic cafes located inside Hamamönü's historic mansions. Imagine sipping your coffee in the wood-scented rooms of centuries-old buildings like Kabakçı Konağı or Beynamlızade Konağı, surrounded by authentic decorations. These places are not just cafes; they are time machines that transport you to the past. You can complete this nostalgic flavor journey by trying traditional Ottoman sherbets, a nearly forgotten delight, alongside your coffee.   

Visit the Mehmet Akif Ersoy Museum House

Nostalgia in the streets, traditional tastes on the palate... Now it's time to step into the soul of Hamamönü, the sacred place where the foundation of the Turkish Republic was laid. Standing modestly yet majestically among the restored houses, the Mehmet Akif Ersoy Museum House is the spiritual heart of this district. Beyond being the birthplace of our National Anthem, it is one of the most sincere witnesses to a nation's struggle for existence.

This two-story wooden building actually has a rich history. It was first built as the Taceddin Dergahı, a Sufi lodge, during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent. During the toughest days of the National Struggle, it was allocated to the Poet of the Homeland, Mehmet Akif Ersoy, who had come to Ankara and had difficulty finding a place to stay. It was within the walls of this humble house, during those challenging days, that the immortal verses that would ignite a nation's fire of independence were put to paper. It is even rumored that to avoid losing inspiration that came at night, Akif carved some stanzas on the lodge walls by candlelight.   

When you enter the museum, you witness the poet's simple life. Seeing his personal belongings, such as his pocket watch, glasses, prayer beads, and rifle, allows you to form an intimate connection with this great figure. Those items are not just objects; they are the silent witnesses of a great cause and an unshakable faith. This visit not only offers you a history lesson but also shows how a nation can produce great works even in its most difficult times. After this visit, we are sure you will feel a deeper curiosity about   

(https://www.yerelrehber.com/en/explore/things-to-do/museum-of-anatolian-civilization).

While You're Here...

Don't think your journey through time in Hamamönü is over! Just a few steps away, other priceless treasures of Ankara await you.

Ankara Castle: After exploring Hamamönü, take a pleasant walk up to the castle and see Ankara from above. A bird's-eye view of the historical texture will add a whole new meaning to your trip.   

Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: If your curiosity for history has been piqued, you can extend your journey back to the Hittites by visiting the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, one of the most important museums in the world.   

Çengelhan Rahmi Koç Museum: If you are interested in the history of industry and technology, this impressive museum is also within walking distance.   

War of Independence Museum (I. TBMM Building): You can crown your tour by visiting the historic parliament building where the National Struggle was directed and where Mehmet Akif Ersoy also served as a deputy.   

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How to get to Hamamönü? Getting to Hamamönü is quite easy. If you're using public transport, the most practical way is to take the Ankaray metro, get off at the Kurtuluş stop, and walk for about 5 minutes. You can also use one of the many bus lines departing from Kızılay or Ulus that pass by the Tacettin Dergahı stop.   

2. What are the visiting hours and entrance fee for the Mehmet Akif Ersoy Museum House? The museum is open to visitors every day of the week except Mondays, from 10:00 to 17:00. Entrance to such memorial houses affiliated with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism is generally free. However, we recommend checking official sources for the most up-to-date information before you go.   

3. Is there parking available in and around Hamamönü? Due to Hamamönü's narrow and historic streets, finding parking in the area is quite difficult. The museum does not have its own parking lot. To ensure your visit is enjoyable and stress-free, using public transportation is the best option.   

Source: For the most current and official information about the Mehmet Akif Ersoy Museum House, you can visit the relevant page of the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Culture and Tourism: (https://sanalmuze.gov.tr/).