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Museums

Gordion Museum

4.5 · 1,591 reviews
A quiet and scholarly site for historical exploration.
Gordion Museum, Yassıhüyük, 06900 Polatlı/Ankara, Türkiye
Interesting facts
1

The museum preserves the wooden furniture from the 'Midas Mound' (Tumulus MM), which is considered the oldest intact wooden structure in the world.

2

Tumulus MM, associated with the legendary King Midas, is the largest of over 100 burial mounds in the area.

3

The site contains evidence of the 'Gordion Knot,' the legendary complex knot cut by Alexander the Great in 333 BCE.

4

The museum’s collection includes unique bronze 'omphalos' bowls and elaborate fibulae (safety pin-style brooches) used in ancient fashion.

5

Excavations at Gordion have confirmed a continuous occupation history spanning over 4,000 years.

Overview

The Gordion Museum is located at the archaeological site of the ancient Phrygian capital, Gordion, in the Yassıhüyük village. It houses a collection spanning from the Early Bronze Age to the Hellenistic period. The facility features artifacts recovered from the extensive tumuli burial mounds surrounding the site. Its primary exhibition highlights the material culture of King Midas, including intricate wooden furniture and metalwork. The museum grounds include an open-air exhibition area displaying architectural fragments and stone carvings. Excavations have been conducted on-site since 1950, revealing a complex urban history. The museum serves as the primary repository for the site's ongoing archaeological research results.

Photo spot

The interior of the reconstructed burial chamber within the Midas Tumulus.

Insider tips

Prioritize a visit to the nearby Midas Tumulus, which features a walk-through tunnel into the burial chamber.

Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes as the site includes unpaved paths around the mounds.

Bring water and sun protection, as the site is largely exposed to the elements.

What to avoid

Do not overlook the outdoor displays scattered around the site, as many visitors focus only on the main building.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays.

Etiquette

Respectful behavior is expected; touching artifacts or climbing on excavation mounds is strictly prohibited.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Spring or early autumn to avoid extreme temperatures on the exposed excavation site.
Address
Gordion Museum, Yassıhüyük, 06900 Polatlı/Ankara, Türkiye
39.653, 31.997
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsWooden furniture from the Midas Mound, Phrygian pottery, and Bronze Age metalwork

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Spring or early autumn to avoid extreme temperatures on the exposed excavation site..

The interior of the reconstructed burial chamber within the Midas Tumulus.

Close by you'll find Gordion Kalesi, Duatepe Aniti, Mehmetçik Monument.