Military Medical Academy Gülhane building in Istanbul with Turkish flag

Gülhane Training And Research Hospital

Gulhane Training and Research Hospital Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Ankara Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Gülhane Training and Research Hospital (Gülhane Eğitim ve Araştırma Hastanesi, GEAH) in Ankara, Turkey, is a distinguished institution that seamlessly blends historical heritage with modern medical innovation. Founded in 1898 as a military medical academy, Gülhane has transformed over more than a century into a cornerstone of Turkish healthcare, serving both military and civilian populations. The hospital’s campus features a harmonious mix of Ottoman-era architecture and contemporary medical facilities, making it an important site for those interested in Turkey’s medical progress and public health history.

This guide provides comprehensive details for planning your visit to Gülhane, including practical information on visiting hours, ticket policies, accessibility, and transportation. It also highlights nearby historical and cultural attractions in Ankara, ensuring you can make the most of your time in Turkey’s capital. For the latest visitor information, consult official resources such as the Gülhane Training and Research Hospital website and the Ministry of Health, Turkey.

Historical photograph of Gülhane II Military Medical Academy in Constantinople in 1903

Floor plan of the Gülhane Military Medical Academy in Constantinople

Introduction
History and Cultural Significance
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Accessibility and Directions
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Special Events and Guided Tours
Gülhane’s Role in Turkish Healthcare and Medical Education
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion

History and Cultural Significance

Gülhane’s roots trace back to its founding in 1898 as a military medical academy under Sultan Abdülhamit II. Originally based in Istanbul, the hospital was relocated to Ankara during World War II, reflecting the country’s shifting political and strategic priorities. Over time, it has evolved into one of the nation’s leading healthcare and research centers, now operating under the Ministry of Health.

The hospital’s campus is an architectural landmark, showcasing Ottoman-era structures alongside state-of-the-art medical buildings. This blend symbolizes the resilience and evolution of Turkish medicine, making Gülhane both a site of cultural heritage and a beacon of modern healthcare.

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Visiting Hours: The historic areas of Gülhane are open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Saturday. Access on Sundays and public holidays may be restricted.
Tickets and Entry: Access to the historical sections is free of charge. Guided tours and special exhibitions may require advance booking and a nominal fee. For up-to-date information, check the official website or contact the visitor desk.

Accessibility and Directions

Location: Gülhane is centrally located in Ankara, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city.
Public Transport: Use the Ankara Metro or any of the numerous bus lines serving central Ankara to reach the hospital. The nearest metro station is within walking distance.
By Car: Limited parking is available; public transportation is recommended.
Accessibility: The grounds and historic areas are wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators provided. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes due to the size of the campus.

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Enhance your visit to Gülhane by exploring these nearby sites:

Anıtkabir: The mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Turkish Republic, and a major symbol of modern Turkey.
Ankara Castle (Ankara Kalesi): A historic fortress offering panoramic city views and a glimpse into Ankara’s past.
Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: Home to a rich collection of artifacts from Turkey’s ancient cultures.

Travel Tip: Early morning visits are best for avoiding crowds and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.

Special Events and Guided Tours

Gülhane occasionally offers guided tours focusing on its medical history and architectural heritage. These are organized through the hospital’s cultural affairs office or in cooperation with Ankara’s tourism authorities. Special events, such as medical symposiums and public exhibitions, are typically announced on the official website.

For virtual resources, interactive maps, and the latest updates, visitors can also consult Ankara’s official tourism portals.

Gülhane’s Role in Turkish Healthcare and Medical Education

National Referral and Tertiary Care Center: Gülhane provides specialized medical services with over 1,000 beds, managing more than one million outpatient visits and 50,000 inpatient admissions annually (Ministry of Health, Turkey).
Innovation in Blood Safety: The hospital pioneered anti-HBc testing in blood donor screening, setting new standards for transfusion safety in Turkey (PubMed).
Military Medicine and Disaster Response: Gülhane’s expertise in trauma and disaster medicine has shaped Turkey’s national preparedness (Turkish Armed Forces Health Command).
Research and Collaboration: The hospital publishes over 200 research articles each year and collaborates with organizations like TÜBİTAK and the World Health Organization.
Medical Education: As part of the University of Health Sciences, Gülhane offers comprehensive undergraduate and postgraduate medical training, including advanced simulation programs.
Public Health Initiatives: Gülhane leads community programs, vaccination campaigns, and was pivotal in Turkey’s COVID-19 response.
Centers of Excellence: Features specialized units in oncology, transplantation, trauma, and infectious diseases.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Gülhane’s visiting hours?
A: The historical areas are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Saturday.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: Access to the historical sections is free; some guided tours or exhibitions may require a ticket.

Q: How do I reach Gülhane by public transport?
A: Take the Ankara Metro or city buses to the nearest stop in central Ankara.

Q: What nearby attractions can I visit?
A: Anıtkabir, Ankara Castle, and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations are all nearby.

Q: Are medical services accessible to visitors?
A: Medical services are reserved for patients; visitors may only access designated public areas.

Anıtkabir: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Overview

Introduction

Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, is Ankara’s most iconic landmark and a focal point of national commemoration. The monument attracts millions of visitors each year who come to honor Atatürk’s memory and explore the site’s rich historical and cultural offerings.

Historical Background

Built between 1944 and 1953, Anıtkabir is a masterpiece of modern Turkish architecture. The complex includes the mausoleum itself, the Peace Park, and the Atatürk and War of Independence Museum, which houses personal artifacts and documents relating to Atatürk and Turkey’s independence.

Visitor Information

Address: Anıttepe, Anıtkabir Cd., 06570 Çankaya/Ankara, Turkey
Public Transport: Reachable by bus lines 188 and 490 from Kızılay.
Parking: Ample parking available nearby.
Accessibility: Wheelchair access is available across the site.

Opening Hours:

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (April to October)
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (November to March)
Closed December 31 and January 1

Tickets:

Entry is free; museum entry may require a small fee.

Travel Tips:

Visit early or late in the day for a quieter experience.
Modest attire and respectful behavior are recommended.
Guided tours are available in multiple languages.

Nearby Attractions

Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: Showcases artifacts from Turkey’s ancient history.
Kocatepe Mosque: Ankara’s largest mosque.
Ankara Castle: Offers historic ambiance and city views.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Anıtkabir

Q: Is Anıtkabir open on national holidays?
A: Yes, but it may be crowded during major commemorative events.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: Grounds access is free; the museum may charge a nominal fee.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, with advance booking recommended.

Q: Can I bring children?
A: Yes, the site is family-friendly.

Visual Resources and Links

Summary and Visitor Tips

Visiting Gülhane Training and Research Hospital offers a unique intersection of medical history, cultural heritage, and contemporary healthcare excellence in Ankara. With free access to its historic sections during designated hours and a location near top attractions like Anıtkabir, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, and Ankara Castle, Gülhane is an essential part of any cultural itinerary in Ankara. For the most current information, consult the Gülhane Hospital website and other official sources.