As of 2010, Ankara is Turkey's second largest city after Istanbul and home to 4.5 million residents.
Soaring high above the heart of Turkey's capital, the Sheraton Ankara is not only a luxury hotel but also a recognizable city landmark. The hotel -- built in the Kavaklidere quarter -- is surrounded by high-rises, government buildings, shops and entertainment venues.
History
Roman ruins litter Ankara's city streets, including this column erected in honor of Emperor Julian's visit in A.D. 362.
Erected in 1991, the hotel was designed by a German firm and redesigned between 2001 and 2004. Its cylindrical shape sets it apart from the city's traditional surroundings, which include centuries-old palaces and Bronze Age-era remains.
Accommodations
The city contains a fusion of classic Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.
The hotel offers 414 rooms, suites and autonomous apartments. All include plasma TVs, bathrobes and slippers. Suites and apartments offer additional luxuries such as Jacuzzis, kitchenettea, marble accents and panoramic views of the city below.
Dining
Built by the Galatians in 10 A.D., the Temple of Augustus and Rome is considered Ankara's most important ancient monument.
The Sheraton Ankara houses two restaurants -- the Brasserie One, which offers á la carte Turkish dishes, as well as the upscale-Italian L'angoletto Restaurant -- and two bars. The Copper Club mixes cocktails and serves bar bites indoors or outside on the terrace, while the Lobby Bar serves beverages and light refreshments accompanied by a pianist.
Surroundings
Ankara's Citadel, or the Ankara Kalesi, dates back to the Galatians and stands on a cliff nearly 400 feet high.
Dozens of Ankara's most popular tourist destinations are scattered near the hotel. The Citadel is about a mile away, while the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is six miles from the hotel and features a collection of artifacts spanning more than 7,500 years. The 15th-century Haci Bayram Mosque, shopping outlets and the ancient remains of a Roman bathhouse are also nearby.
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