Ankara Castle
On top of a hill in Ankara is the old city castle. The construction itself was interesting, but what captured my eye more, was the surrounding ancient city and the panoramic views of the city. In western Europe, a tourist attraction like this would be wiped clean of anything or anyone that is poor and dirty. This place seemed like it was exactly as it had been for centuries.
Kids playing in the narrow streets. Houses almost falling apart, but still with smoke coming out of the little chimneys, witnessing that someone still live in them. There was a distinct smell of firewood being burned to keep people warm behind the old walls.
Walking onto the castle building itself, there were no fences or anything to keep the tourists from falling down the 50-100 meters straight drop below. It was certainly not a place for anyone afraid of heights. The view over the city was incredible. The setting sun lit up a whole hillside of slum houses, revealing a huge area of poor peoples homes. Right next to it was a modern looking building complex. The contrast was pretty stunning.
Elyse
Livin’ the dream, man!
Stay warm :)
Mar 05, 2011 @ 00:15
mikey d
Beautiful pics. Hey how is your stomach with all of the different food and water and traveling and such? Stay safe and look forward to more.
Mar 05, 2011 @ 14:38
graugart
So far so good with the stomach :)
Mar 05, 2011 @ 18:47