What to see and do in Istanbul and Ankara, from culture and art to fat cats


Hagia Sophia in Istanbul is one of the top attractions in Turkiye. — Photos: MELODY L. GOH/The Star

At a small park by the entrance of a historical neighbourhood called Hamamonu in the Turkiye capital of Ankara, lies the statue of an overweight ... actually, an extremely obese white cat. Close by is a replica of a cannon, or perhaps it is an old cannon that no longer works today. I have no idea why they are at the park, as there are no plaques or signboards around the area to explain their existence.

Honestly though, I also couldn’t really be bothered to find out why but I was rather amused by the statue as it reminded me of the famous cat meme, “Oh lawd he comin’!”

Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 11.12/month

Billed as RM 11.12 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 9.87/month

Billed as RM 118.40 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Travel

Ever found it difficult to fall asleep in a new place?
How to eat and drink to minimise jet lag while on vacation
There and back again: Finding joy in Bhutan, one hike at a time
These cruises are a great way to see more of South-East Asia
Catch a glimpse of the world's largest land predator in Greenland
Gear up for Formula 1 fun at these watch parties in Singapore
China’s big push to attract more tourists after Covid-19 is paying off
Discover Hong Kong, Guangdong and Macao in a single trip
New Mount Everest route to be shared at gathering in KL on Aug 23
Exploring Tohoku region and Kyushu island in Japan

Others Also Read