Ankara

Roman Temple of Augustus: A Timeless Relic of Ancient Ankara

• Tucked away in the heart of Ankara’s Ulus district, the Roman Temple of Augustus stands as a testament to the city’s deep historical roots. Dating back to the 1st century BCE, this ancient structure is one of Ankara’s most significant remnants from the Roman era. Built during the reign of Emperor Augustus, it later gained fame for bearing the Monumentum Ancyranum, the best-preserved inscription of Augustus' Res Gestae (Deeds of the Divine Augustus), a political autobiography of Rome’s first emperor. For history enthusiasts and travelers alike, this temple offers a fascinating glimpse into Ankara’s past, where Roman, Hellenistic, and later Byzantine influences converge.

Historical Significance

• The temple was originally constructed on the site of an earlier Phrygian religious sanctuary and was dedicated to Rome and Emperor Augustus. As Ankara (then called Ancyra) became an important city within the Roman province of Galatia, the temple solidified the region’s loyalty to Rome.
• One of its most remarkable features is the Monumentum Ancyranum, a Latin and Greek inscription carved onto the temple walls. This inscription is considered one of the most important historical documents of the Roman world, providing direct insight into Augustus’ achievements and propaganda. Scholars have referred to it as the "Queen of Inscriptions" due to its historical value.
• During the Byzantine period, the temple was converted into a church, reflecting the religious transformations that shaped the region over centuries.

Architectural Marvel

• Though time has weathered much of the structure, the Temple of Augustus still retains elements of its former grandeur. Key architectural features include:
  • Massive Corinthian columns: While only a few remain standing, they offer a glimpse of the temple’s original elegance and size.
  • Rectangular podium structure: The temple follows the classical Roman style, elevated on a raised platform, which was once accessible via a grand staircase.
  • Intricate Latin & Greek inscriptions: The Res Gestae Divi Augusti inscription remains a key highlight, etched into the temple walls and offering one of the best-preserved records of ancient Roman politics.
  • Blend of cultures: The site reflects a transition from Phrygian to Roman to Byzantine rule, symbolizing Ankara’s layered history.

👉 Pro Tip: Visit in the late afternoon when the setting sun casts a golden glow over the ruins, creating a truly magical ambiance. Also, take a moment to explore the nearby Hacı Bayram Square, where you can enjoy traditional Turkish tea while admiring the city’s historical contrasts.