Kırıkkale - Turkey
Kırıkkale: A Thriving City at the Heart of Central Anatolia
Located in the heart of Turkey's Central Anatolia region, Kırıkkale is a bustling city with a rich history and a population of over 186,000 residents. Its name, meaning "broken castle" in Turkish, reflects its strategic location on the Ankara-Kayseri railway line near the Kızılırmak River.
Kırıkkale's transformation from a small village to a thriving industrial center began in the 1950s with the establishment of steel mills, which specialized in producing high-quality alloy steel and machinery. This marked the beginning of significant economic growth for the city, attracting new residents and businesses. In the following decades, chemical plants were added, further diversifying the local economy.
The city's industrial prowess was further solidified with the establishment of the Tüpraş Kırıkkale Oil Refinery in 1986, making it a major player in Turkey's energy sector. Today, Kırıkkale is known for its strong manufacturing base and its reputation as a hub for quality steel production.
As an attractive location for businesses and residents alike, Kırıkkale boasts good amenities (B score), with access to essential services such as healthcare facilities, shopping centers, and education institutions. The city also scores well in terms of commute (B) and health (B), reflecting its relatively compact size and the availability of quality medical care.
One area where Kırıkkale excels is in childcare and education (A score), with a range of reputable schools and educational institutions catering to local families. This emphasis on education has contributed significantly to the city's reputation as an excellent place to raise a family.
Culture lovers will appreciate Kırıkkale's rich heritage, although the city scores slightly lower in this area (B-). Visitors can explore the city's historic landmarks, including its iconic castle ruins, and experience the local cuisine, which reflects the region's unique flavors and traditions.
While Kırıkkale may not be a hub for tourism or entertainment, it offers a great balance of economic opportunities, quality education, and comfortable living conditions. With Ankara, Turkey's capital city, just 80 km to the west, residents can easily access the country's cultural and economic heartland while enjoying the benefits of small-town life in Kırıkkale.
Overall, Kırıkkale is an attractive destination for businesses, families, and individuals seeking a well-rounded lifestyle with opportunities for growth and development.
Clock Tower in Kırıkkale
Kırıkkale
Country: Turkey
Population: 186960
Elevation: 713.0 metre
Area: 318.0 square kilometre
Web: http://www.kirikkale.bel.tr/
Area code: 0318