Hattusa: Mysteries of the Hittite Capital Revealed

If you are looking for your next unique destination, then you need not look any further. Hattusa is situated in turkey and it is known as a mesmerizing capital of the Hittite empire. This hidden gem will give you an insight into an ancient civilization that once covered much of Anatolia. Are you ready to explore fascinating landscapes and old mysteries? Let’s go!

Hattusa Ruins Aerial View

Reasons You Should Visit Hattusa

1. Intricate History:
   The hittite empire had its capital at Hattusa, which was one of the great powers in the ancient Near East. It flowered from approximately 1600 BCE to 1200 BCE; hence its ruins represent a wealth of historical knowledge. When strolling through this ancient place, one can almost feel echoes of the past.
2. Architecture Wonders:
   This city is famous for its huge city walls, massive gateways and detailed rock carvings. Lion Gate and King’s Gate are some of the most beautiful ones because they demonstrate how sophisticated were engineering skills and artistry of the hittites.
3. UNESCO World Heritage Site:
   In 1986, Hattusa was granted UNESCO World Heritage status. This accomplishment attests to its global importance and guarantees its conservation in future generations.
4. Enigmas and Legends:
   Numerous riddles surround Hattusa from unreadable hieroglyphs to mysterious vanishing of hittites themselves. Exploring these ruins feels like stepping into an Indiana Jones movie!

Corum, Bogazkale, Hattusa Archaeological Site

How to Visit Hattusa

How to Get there:

• By Car: One can use a car to travel to Hattusa. Ankara, the capital of Turkey is about 3 hours away by road. You can rent a car from the airport or city. The roads are good and you will pass through beautiful Turkish countryside.
• By Public Transport: In case you prefer using public transport, take a bus from Ankara to Çorum, which is the closest town to Hattusa. After reaching Corum, you may hire a taxi or enter into one of the local minibus that goes direct to Bogazkale where now stands as an authentic village built around this ancient site.

Archaeological Site Hattusa Historical Gate

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Where to Stay:

• Boğazkale: The nearest place to spend your night is Bogazkale; small village with some homely guesthouses and hotels. If you stay here then you get more in touch with locals and have more personalized experience.
• Çorum: Another option for accommodation is Corum. It has various types of accommodations like budget hotels up to expensive ones. It takes approximately 30 minutes drive from Hattusa.

Hattusa Ancient City Stone Sculptures at the Sphinx

When to Visit:

Hence it would be advisable that one visits Hattusa during spring (April-June) as well as autumn/fall (September-October). At such times, temperatures are mild allowing one explore without any discomforts. Summer could become unbearably hot while winter might bring about snow which makes it slightly challenging for someone who wishes go on exploration trips between November and February

Hattusa Ancient City Potern

What to Bring:

• Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain, so good shoes are a must.
• Sunscreen and Hat: The site is quite exposed, and there isn’t much shade. Protect yourself from the sun.
• Water and Snacks: There are limited facilities on-site, so it’s a good idea to bring your own refreshments.

Hattusa Ancient City Stone Carving

The Hattusa Highlights

1. The Great Temple: This is the biggest and most important religious building in Hattusa. The remains of the temple show its magnificence, having huge stone foundations and sanctified areas.
2. The Lion Gate: Lion Gate, one of several main entrances to the city, is flanked by large stone lions. It symbolizes Hittite power and skill.
3. The King’s Gate: Another gate has a warrior god relief on it which is quite remarkable workmanship.
4. Yazılıkaya: Situated just outside the city, this rock sanctuary is adorned with stunning rock carvings representing various Hittite gods. It is a short walk from the main site and well worth seeing.
5. The Royal Palace: Wander through what remains of the royal palaces where kings of the Khattis once lived. A view from this place over surrounding landscapes is simply breathtaking.

Hattusa Ancient City Stone Sculptures at the Sphinx

Hattusa goes beyond history; it’s like time travelling itself! Being a lover of history or an archeology fan or somebody who enjoys exploring new places and cultures, you will find that Hattusa gives you not only an exclusive but also unforgettable experience that will never leave you feeling bored in any way. Next time when planning to visit Turkey you can incorporate this ancient wonder into your itinerary which can you contact us for create a tailored Turkey Tour … you’ll be grateful!

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