Polatli rests on the high Anatolian plateau, a fertile region 80 kilometres west of the Turkish capital of Ankara. A vivacious and youthful city, Polatli is the perfect base for exploring the ancient Phrygian city of Gordion, the site upon which Alexander the Great cut the famous Gordian Knot before gaining rule over much of Asia.
Things to do in Polatlı
The heart of the city belongs to the town square, where pavement cafes and restaurants overlook an impressive water feature. For a taste of cosmopolitan Anatolia, enjoy a traditional Turkish meal with a modern twist at Dörtler Pide Ve Kebap Salonu.
Visit Martyrs of Sakarya, a magnificent monument built upon the city’s largest hill commemorating the Turkish War of Independence. Climb 420 steps between large pillars until you reach the main statue and museum for views of the entire city and the fields where the battle occurred.
Polatli is home to several mosques, the largest and most impressive of which is Polatlı Çarşı Cami, with its elaborate prayer room and vibrant mosaic ceiling. While the Sanayi Cami, on the western outskirts is a worthy while visit for its beautiful Islamic calligraphy and mesmerising blue interior.
History enthusiasts will want to visit the Phrygian city of Gordion and its ancient necropolis of over 80 burial mounds. At 53 metres tall, The Great Tumulus is the largest burial mound and thought to contain the remains of King Midas, the ruler of the Phrygian Kingdom between 1100 and 300 BC. You can walk right into the tomb and witness the wooden chamber that protected his body.
Getting around Polatlı
You can reach Polatli by bus, train or taxi from the Ankara. High-speed trains operate between Ankara and Polatli every hour, with journey times of just over 30 minutes, while buses take about 1.5 hours.