Alacahöyük

Alacahöyük is a significant archaeological site located in the Çorum province of Turkey. The site was first discovered in 1835 by the British archaeologist Charles Texier. However, it was not until the 20th century that extensive excavations were carried out. The site is believed to date back to the 4th millennium BCE and was inhabited by a variety of different civilizations over the centuries.

Alacahöyük was originally a Hittite city-state, and its importance can be seen in the fact that it was listed as one of the six great cities of the Hittite Empire. The city was strategically located on the trade route between Anatolia and the Black Sea, which made it a hub for trade and commerce. The Hittites were a powerful and influential civilization in ancient Anatolia, and their culture had a significant impact on the region.

The Hittite period at Alacahöyük lasted from around 1800 BCE to 1200 BCE. During this time, the city underwent significant development and expansion. The Hittites built impressive temples and palaces, some of which still survive to this day. One of the most notable buildings at the site is the Sphinx Gate, which is believed to date back to the 14th century BCE. This gate features two sphinxes, one on either side of the entrance, which were carved out of stone. The gate is an impressive feat of engineering, and it is a testament to the Hittite's skill in stonework.

The Hittites were also known for their metalworking and crafts, and evidence of their skill can be seen in the artifacts that have been uncovered at the site. One of the most famous discoveries at Alacahöyük is the bronze statue of a Hittite king, which is believed to date back to the 14th century BCE. This statue is one of the finest examples of Hittite art, and it is now on display at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations in Ankara.

After the decline of the Hittite Empire, Alacahöyük fell under the control of various other civilizations, including the Phrygians, the Lydians, and the Persians. Each of these civilizations left their mark on the site, and evidence of their presence can be seen in the architecture and artifacts that have been uncovered.

In the 7th century BCE, Alacahöyük was conquered by the Assyrian Empire, and it became part of the Assyrian province of Tushhan. During this period, the city underwent significant changes, and new buildings and structures were constructed. One of the most impressive structures from this period is the temple of the weather god, which was built in the 6th century BCE. This temple features a large central hall with a high ceiling, and it is decorated with intricate carvings and reliefs.

The site of Alacahöyük continued to be inhabited during the Hellenistic period, and it was eventually abandoned in the 1st century CE. After the city was abandoned, it was gradually buried under layers of sediment and debris. The site was largely forgotten until the 19th century, when Charles Texier rediscovered it.

Excavations at the site began in earnest in the 1930s, and they have continued on and off ever since. The excavations have uncovered a wealth of artifacts and structures, which have shed light on the various civilizations that inhabited the site over the centuries. Many of these artifacts are now on display at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations in Ankara, which is one of the most important museums in Turkey.

Today, Alacahöyük is an important archaeological site and a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient