NORTH OF ANKARA

The third-century B.C. Galatian settlement of Gangrea is the foundation of present day Cankiri, 135 km from Ankara. The earliest evidence of civilization are dated at about 3000 B.C. There are important tumuli (burial mounds) in this province, as well as artifacts from various civilizations in the Cankiri Museum. The ruins of an 11th-century fortress overlook the city. In town, the Ulu Mosque (Sultan Suleyman), completed in 1558 by Turkey's greatest architect, Sinan, recalls the years of Ottoman culture. The Cavundur thermal spa has bathing and drinking water beneficial for rheumatic and inflammatory diseases. The waters flow from the ground at 54 C at a rate of 47 liters/second. Tas Mescit, or Cemaleddin Ferruh Darulhadisi, a medieval hospital built in 1242, lies just outside the city. North of Cankiri is the beautiful Ilgaz National Park and Ski Center. In the park, Kadin Cayiri is a particularly lovely rest area with pools, green areas and cafes. Near Eldivan, 15 km southwest of Cankiri, is Bulbulpinari, a picturesque rest area with lush greenery and picnic spots.