Spolia in the Wall of the Ankara Castle

Spolia in the Wall of the Ankara Castle

View of reused elements (spolia) from earlier periods that were used in the construction of the Castle wall of the "Ankara Castle" (aka Citadel).  Notice the Roman Altar, with a garland, in the center of the image.  This collection of spolia hints at what was here in the Late Roman Period.

The present fortification walls of the Castle date to the seventh century A.D.  However, the earliest fortifications go back to the eighth century B.C.  There have been many destructions and rebuilds over the years—Phrygian, Galatians, Romans Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans.

The inner walls mark off an area of 13 acres.