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Yazılıkaya is one of the most important open-air temples of the Hittite Empire, famous for its reliefs of gods and goddesses.

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Yazılıkaya is an open-air rock-cut sanctuary located near Boğazkale district of Çorum, approximately 2 kilometers northeast of Hattusa, the capital of the Hittite Empire. Dating back to the 13th century BCE, this sacred site is considered one of the most important religious centers of the Hittites. It consists of two main galleries: the Great Gallery (Chamber A) and the Small Gallery (Chamber B). The Great Gallery is notable for its impressive reliefs depicting the gods and goddesses of the Hittite pantheon. Among these reliefs are figures of the storm god Teshub, the sun goddess Hepat, their son Sharruma, and daughter Alanzu, as well as many other gods and goddesses. This gallery, where the gods are arranged in a procession, offers invaluable insights into Hittite mythology and religious beliefs. The Small Gallery is more associated with the royal family and the cult of the dead. Here, there is a relief depicting the Hittite king Tudhaliya IV being embraced by the god Sharruma, and a frieze depicting twelve underworld gods. The hieroglyphic inscriptions on the walls of Yazılıkaya help confirm the identities of the gods and goddesses depicted in the reliefs. This area was where the Hittites performed their religious ceremonies...

tips_and_updatesVisit Tips

• Wear comfortable walking shoes when visiting Yazılıkaya, as the area can be uneven.
• Don't forget to use a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun, especially during summer months.
• You might consider bringing binoculars to better see the details of the reliefs.
• Using a guidebook or mobile app with information about Hittite history and mythology while exploring the site will enrich your experience.
• Since Yazılıkaya is close to the ancient city of Hattusa, you can plan to visit both sites on the same day.