"One of the Turkish Republic's first purpose-built public parks, opened in 1943 in Ulus."
Genclik Parki (Youth Park), Ankara Overview
Genclik Parki, or Youth Park, is a 27.5-hectare public park in central Ankara, wedged between Ulus Square, the Ankara Opera House, and Ankara Central Station. Opened on May 19, 1943 on drained marshland, it was one of the young Turkish Republic's first purpose-built public parks. The park centers on a large artificial pool with fountains and evening light shows, alongside a Luna Park amusement area, an open-air theatre, and miniature trains that have run since 1957. It remains a popular, budget-friendly outing for local families.
Built on reclaimed marshland and inaugurated on May 19, 1943 to coincide with National Youth Day, Genclik Parki was conceived as a model recreational space for the new Turkish capital. Its 42,000-square-metre central pool, ringed by walking paths and fountains, remains the park's centerpiece, with illuminated water displays after dark. The grounds hold an amusement park with a Ferris wheel and rides, an open-air theatre, a cultural center, a youth center, the Ankara Municipality Convention Hall, and dozens of kiosks and tea gardens. Two miniature trains, added in 1957, still circle the park. It sits within easy walking distance of Ulus Square and the Ankara Opera House.
