# Aksaray

> central district and city in Aksaray Province, Turkey

**Wikidata**: [Q182025](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q182025)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aksaray)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/aksaray

## Summary
Aksaray is the central district and city in Aksaray Province, Turkey, serving as both the administrative capital and a major urban center. Located in central Anatolia, it is a large human settlement with a population of 253,113 as of 2022, making it a significant regional hub. The city is known for its historical and cultural significance, with connections to ancient Roman and Byzantine history.

## Key Facts
- **Classification**: Aksaray is a city and district in Turkey, classified as a large human settlement, a district of Turkey, and a municipality.
- **Population**: The city has a population of 253,113 (2022), with historical records dating back to 1927 (7,339 residents).
- **Geography**: Located at coordinates 38.3686° N, 34.0297° E, with an elevation of 980 meters above sea level.
- **Administrative Status**: It serves as the capital of Aksaray Province and is located within the same province.
- **Time Zone**: Aksaray follows UTC+03:00, adjusted for daylight saving time as of 2018.
- **Identifiers**: Includes GND ID 4206312-7, VIAF ID 5148170868669022930008, and Geonames ID 324496.
- **Digital Presence**: Official website is http://www.aksaray.bel.tr/, with active social media profiles on Twitter (@aksaraybel) and Facebook (aksaraybel).
- **Historical Names**: Also known as Archelaïs, Garsaura, and Coloneia, reflecting its ancient and medieval heritage.
- **Economic Codes**: UN/LOCODE is TRAKS, and the local dialing code is 0382.
- **Cultural Connections**: Twinned with cities such as Venice, Graz, and Osaka, indicating international cultural and municipal partnerships.

## FAQs
- **What is the current population of Aksaray?**
  As of 2022, Aksaray has a population of 253,113, with urban and rural breakdowns provided for historical and comparative analysis.

- **How has Aksaray's population changed over time?**
  Population records span from 1927 (7,339) to 2022 (253,113), showing steady growth with notable increases in the 2000s and 2010s.

- **What are the main historical names of Aksaray?**
  Aksaray has been known by names such as Archelaïs, Garsaura, and Coloneia, reflecting its historical significance in Roman and Byzantine contexts.

- **What is the elevation of Aksaray?**
  The city is situated at an elevation of 980 meters above sea level, contributing to its geographical and climatic characteristics.

- **How is Aksaray connected to other cities internationally?**
  Aksaray is twinned with cities like Venice, Graz, and Osaka, fostering cultural and municipal exchanges on a global scale.

## Why It Matters
Aksaray plays a crucial role as the administrative and economic center of Aksaray Province, Turkey. Its historical significance, marked by ancient Roman and Byzantine influences, underscores its cultural heritage. The city's strategic location in central Anatolia makes it a key regional hub for trade, governance, and cultural preservation. The population growth and urban development reflect its importance as a modern urban center while honoring its historical roots. Its international twinning relationships highlight its role in fostering global connections and mutual understanding.

## Notable For
- **Historical Significance**: Aksaray's ancient names (Archelaïs, Garsaura) and Roman connections (Coloneia) highlight its deep historical roots.
- **Administrative Role**: As the capital of Aksaray Province, it serves as a political and economic center for the region.
- **Population Growth**: Significant population increases from 1927 to 2022 demonstrate its status as a growing urban area.
- **Cultural Exchange**: Twinning agreements with cities like Venice and Graz indicate its role in international cultural diplomacy.
- **Digital Infrastructure**: Active social media presence and an official website reflect modern governance and community engagement.

## Body
### Geography and Location
Aksaray is situated at coordinates 38.3686° N, 34.0297° E, within Aksaray Province, Turkey. The city's elevation of 980 meters above sea level influences its climate and landscape. It is part of the broader region of central Anatolia, known for its historical and cultural significance.

### Population and Demographics
The population of Aksaray has grown significantly over the years, with records dating back to 1927 (7,339 residents). The most recent population count is 253,113 (2022), reflecting urban and rural distributions. Historical data includes population figures from 1935 (8,344) to 2021 (247,147), showing steady growth.

### Administrative and Political Status
Aksaray serves as the capital of Aksaray Province and is classified as a district of Turkey. It is a municipality with administrative responsibilities for local governance. The city's political significance is underscored by its role in regional governance and international relations.

### Historical and Cultural Heritage
Aksaray's historical names, including Archelaïs and Garsaura, reflect its ancient and medieval heritage. The city's connections to Roman history, particularly as Coloneia, highlight its long-standing cultural and archaeological importance. These historical references are documented in sources like Pauly–Wissowa and the Brockhaus and Efron Encyclopedic Dictionary.

### Economic and Infrastructure
Aksaray's economic codes, such as UN/LOCODE TRAKS, and local dialing code 0382, indicate its integration into national and regional infrastructure. The city's official website (http://www.aksaray.bel.tr/) and social media profiles (Twitter: @aksaraybel, Facebook: aksaraybel) reflect modern governance and community engagement.

### International Relations
Aksaray is twinned with several cities, including Venice, Graz, and Osaka, fostering cultural and municipal exchanges. These partnerships highlight the city's role in international diplomacy and cultural preservation. The city's international connections are documented in official records and municipal archives.

### Digital and Social Media Presence
Aksaray's active social media presence, including Twitter (@aksaraybel) and Facebook (aksaraybel), reflects modern governance and community engagement. The city's digital infrastructure supports local governance and public communication. Social media follower counts are tracked annually, indicating community interest and engagement.

### Notable Connections
Aksaray's connections to other entities, such as the Digital Atlas of the Roman Empire (ID 21244), underscore its historical and archaeological significance. The city's presence in cultural databases, including the Kulturenvanteri taxonomy, further highlights its role in regional and international cultural contexts.

## References

1. [Source](https://statoids.com/ytr.html)
2. Virtual International Authority File
3. [Source](https://www.lexpera.com.tr/resmi-gazete/metin/gun-isigindan-daha-fazla-yararlanmak-amaciyla-butun-yurtta-uygulanan-ileri-saat-uygulamasinin-devam-3)
4. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
5. MusicBrainz
6. GeoNames
7. [Source](https://service.unece.org/trade/locode/tr.htm)
8. [archINFORM](https://www.archinform.net/service/wd_aiort.php)
9. [iNaturalist](https://www.inaturalist.org/places/inaturalist-places.csv.zip)
10. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File
11. YouTube API