Yazılıkaya is one of the most important religious centers of the Hittite civilization, located near Boğazkale District of Çorum Province, Turkey. Dating back more than 3,000 years, this extraordinary rock sanctuary was the sacred ceremonial area of the Hittite capital Hattusa and was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1986 together with Hattusa.
Created within natural rock formations, Yazılıkaya consists of two large open-air galleries decorated with magnificent stone reliefs depicting Hittite gods, goddesses, kings, and mythological figures. It is considered one of the finest examples of Hittite religious art and architecture.
General Information
Location: Boğazkale District, Çorum Province, Turkey
Region: Central Anatolia
Civilization: Hittite Empire
Period: Mainly 13th century BC (especially during the reign of King Tudhaliya IV)
Type: Rock sanctuary / open-air temple
Nearest Ancient Site: Hattusa Ancient City
UNESCO Status: Part of the Hattusa: The Hittite Capital World Heritage Site
Yazılıkaya is located approximately 2 kilometers northeast of Hattusa, on a rocky hillside overlooking the surrounding landscape.
History of Yazılıkaya
The Hittite Empire Period
The Hittites established one of the most powerful states in Anatolia between the 17th and 12th centuries BC. Their capital, Hattusa, served as the political, military, and religious center of the empire.
Yazılıkaya functioned as one of the most important sacred areas of Hattusa. Religious ceremonies, royal rituals, and celebrations connected with the Hittite calendar were performed here.
The Hittites followed a polytheistic religion and worshipped hundreds of gods associated with nature, fertility, storms, mountains, and celestial powers.
The reliefs at Yazılıkaya represent important figures from the Hittite religious world, including:
- Teshub (the Storm God)
- Hebat (the Sun Goddess)
- Hittite kings
- Groups of gods and goddesses
Architectural Features of Yazılıkaya
Unlike traditional temples built with stone blocks, Yazılıkaya is a natural rock sanctuary shaped by carving and decorating existing rock formations.
The site consists of two main sections:
1. The Great Gallery (Chamber A)
The Great Gallery is the most impressive part of Yazılıkaya.
The walls are covered with a long procession of gods and divine figures.
Main features:
- Represents the Hittite pantheon.
- Contains numerous rock-cut reliefs.
- Shows gods and goddesses arranged according to religious hierarchy.
- Was probably used for major state ceremonies and religious festivals.
More than 80 divine figures are represented in the reliefs, making this one of the greatest achievements of Hittite artistic expression.
The arrangement of the figures was carefully planned. Their positions, directions, and sizes reflect their importance within the Hittite belief system.
2. The Small Gallery (Chamber B)
The Small Gallery is a more private and symbolic area compared to the Great Gallery.
The reliefs here include:
- King Tudhaliya IV
- Protective deities
- Underworld-related symbols
- Religious and royal imagery
This section is believed to have been used for special ceremonies connected with the royal family and important religious rituals.
The Rock Reliefs of Yazılıkaya
The most famous feature of Yazılıkaya is its extraordinary collection of rock carvings.
The reliefs depict:
- Processions of gods
- Divine families
- Mythological beings
- Royal figures
- Sacred symbols
The artwork provides valuable information about:
- Hittite mythology
- Religious beliefs
- Royal power
- Artistic traditions
The Great Gallery presents a visual representation of the Hittite universe, showing how gods were organized in a divine order.
Yazılıkaya and Hittite Religious Beliefs
The Hittites described their homeland as the “Land of a Thousand Gods.” This name reflects the diversity of their religious system.
Their beliefs combined traditions from different cultures, including:
- Hittite traditions
- Hurrian mythology
- Ancient Anatolian beliefs
Therefore, Yazılıkaya is not only a temple but also a symbol of the multicultural structure of the Hittite Empire.
Visiting Yazılıkaya and Hattusa
A visit to Yazılıkaya is usually combined with a tour of Hattusa Ancient City.
Hattusa Ancient City
Located only a few kilometers away, Hattusa was the capital of the Hittite Empire and one of the most important archaeological sites in Anatolia.
Main attractions include:
- Lion Gate
- King’s Gate
- Sphinx Gate
- Great Temple
- Royal District
- City walls and fortifications
Hattusa demonstrates the advanced urban planning, architecture, and political organization of the Hittites.
Things to Do in Yazılıkaya
1. Archaeological and Cultural Exploration
Yazılıkaya is an ideal destination for:
- History enthusiasts
- Archaeology lovers
- Cultural travelers
- Students and researchers
It offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the oldest civilizations of Anatolia.
2. Photography
The site is excellent for photography thanks to:
- Ancient rock carvings
- Dramatic natural landscapes
- Anatolian countryside scenery
The combination of history and nature creates a memorable atmosphere.
3. Hittite Heritage Route
Yazılıkaya can be included in a cultural route covering the most important Hittite sites:
Çorum → Boğazkale → Hattusa → Yazılıkaya → Alacahöyük
This route provides a complete journey through the history of the Hittite civilization.
Nearby Attractions
Hattusa Ancient City
Distance: Approximately 2 km
The capital of the Hittite Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights:
- Ancient city walls
- Monumental gates
- Temples
- Royal structures
Boğazköy Museum
Located near Hattusa, this museum displays artifacts discovered during excavations.
Important exhibits include:
- Hittite tablets
- Ceramics
- Sculptures
- Daily life objects
- Archaeological findings
Alacahöyük Archaeological Site
Distance: Approximately 35–45 km
One of Turkey’s most important archaeological sites, famous for:
- Hatti civilization remains
- Royal tombs
- Sphinx Gate
- Hittite monuments
How to Get to Yazılıkaya
From Çorum City
- Distance: Approximately 80–90 km
- Travel time: Around 1–1.5 hours by car
The route follows:
Çorum → Sungurlu → Boğazkale → Yazılıkaya
From Ankara
- Distance: Approximately 200 km
- Travel time: Around 2.5–3 hours
Route:
Ankara → Sungurlu → Boğazkale
By Private Car
A private vehicle is the most convenient way to explore the region because Hattusa, Yazılıkaya, and Alacahöyük are located at different points.
Best Time to Visit Yazılıkaya
Spring (April–June)
The best season for visiting:
- Pleasant temperatures
- Green landscapes
- Comfortable walking conditions
Autumn (September–October)
Ideal for:
- Photography
- Cultural tours
- Outdoor exploration
Summer
The area can become hot during midday. Morning or late afternoon visits are recommended.
Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring sun protection during summer.
- Visit Hattusa and Yazılıkaya on the same day.
- Include Boğazköy Museum in your itinerary.
- Consider a guided tour to better understand Hittite mythology and history.
- Allow enough time to explore the archaeological area carefully.
History Carved into Stone
Yazılıkaya is far more than an ancient temple. It is a remarkable cultural treasure that preserves the religious beliefs, artistic achievements, and worldview of the Hittites.
Together with Hattusa, Yazılıkaya represents one of the greatest archaeological legacies of Anatolia. For travelers interested in history, archaeology, and cultural tourism, this sacred rock sanctuary is one of the must-see destinations in Çorum and Central Anatolia.