Hattusa Tour – The Capital of the Hittites
Journey into Ancient Civilization
Hattusa, once the capital of the mighty Hittite Empire, offers a fascinating journey deep into the roots of Anatolia’s history. The Hittites were an Indo-European people who arrived in north-central Anatolia via the Black Sea in the early 18th century BC. There they encountered the indigenous Hatti people, from whom they adopted elements of culture and tradition, ultimately building one of the greatest civilizations of the Bronze Age.
Renowned for their mastery of horse-drawn chariots, the Hittites became a formidable military power. Their most famous confrontation was with Pharaoh Ramses II of Egypt, culminating in the Battle of Kadesh around 1274 BC. Remarkably, this war led to the world’s first recorded peace treaty, inscribed on clay tablets—with women playing a role in the agreement. This moment marked a milestone in both diplomacy and gender history.
Tour Schedule
Hotel Pickup – 8:30 AM (Cappadocia Region)
We begin with a morning pickup from your hotel, followed by a scenic drive of approximately 3 hours via Yozgat to reach the ancient city of Hattusa.
Yazılıkaya – The Sanctuary of the Gods
Our first stop is Yazılıkaya, the Hittites’ sacred open-air sanctuary. Here, the rock walls are adorned with striking reliefs of gods and goddesses, carved more than 3,000 years ago. This remarkable site offers a direct glimpse into Hittite religion and mythology.
Hattusa – Capital of the Hittite Empire
We then proceed to Hattusa, the imperial capital, to explore its vast ruins. Highlights include:
– The Great Temple, once the heart of Hittite spiritual life.
– The imposing Lion Gate and King’s Gate, monumental entrances to the ancient city.
– The Royal Palace and administrative areas that reflect the power and sophistication of the empire.
Alacahöyük – Cradle of Hittite Civilization
After Hattusa, we continue to Alacahöyük, considered the first capital of both the Hittites and the earlier Hatti people. This site preserves remarkable remains, including ancient tombs, reliefs, and artifacts that showcase the beginnings of this Bronze Age culture.
Return Journey
Following our exploration, we return to Cappadocia, arriving back at your hotel between 7:00–8:00 PM.
Optional Arrangements
This tour can also be arranged from/to Ankara or Kayseri, offering flexibility for travelers coming from different regions.
