Ankara
In 1923, right after the War of Independence, Ankara was established the fledgling Turkish Republic's new capital—in part because it was a worthless, unused steppe city more or less in the middle of nowhere, and therefore thought to be secure. The city still seems that way somewhat, despite being the center of national political activity and home to more than 4 million citizens. It doesn't come near to having the historical abundance or vibrancy of Istanbul, yet Ankara does allow a complete overview of the history of this land, both ancient and modern. For proof, visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, a container of the best archeological treasures located in Turkey, and the Anıtkabir, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s massive mausoleum. Atatürk’s larger-than-life persona and the impact he had on the country can be tasted more efficiently at the Anıtkabir than anywhere else in Turkey. Indeed, the capital city as a whole is filled by the great man’s impressive and enduring legacy and is nothing less than a masterpiece to his overpowering will.
Though mostly modern in character, Ankara is, in fact, an ancient settlement that was occupied successively by the Hittites and other Anatolian kingdoms, Romans, Byzantines, the Greeks, Seljuks, and the Ottomans. Sights of these layers of history can be seen in the Citadel and Ulus areas, where a few Roman remains are accidentally juxtaposed with Seljuk-era mosques, centuries-old Ottoman caravansaries, and ordinary modern buildings. The top of the ancient citadel offers great views of the city, and within the walls is a fascinating neighborhood.
Ankara is also a pleasingly green and easily off-soundings city, with restaurants, clubs, and hotels that are frequently diverse and cosmopolitan. This is at center a government and college town, so you'll also find more comfortable attitudes here than in numerous other parts of Anatolia.