Alacahöyük

Historic Site in Ankara

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Bernard Gagnon

Tucked away in the quiet plains of Central Anatolia, Alacahöyük is one of Türkiye's most intriguing archaeological sites. It's a place where history feels tangible — where lions guard ancient gates and sun disks gleam in museum displays. As one of the best places to go on a day trip from Boğazkale, Alacahöyük offers an intimate window into the Bronze Age world of the Hattians and Hittites, long before the rise of classical civilizations.

History and Significance
Things to See and Do
How to Get There
Practical Tips
Is Alacahöyük Worth Visiting?
Nearby Attractions

History and Significance

Alacahöyük was once one of the most important ceremonial centers of the Hittite Empire, but its roots stretch even deeper — back to the Chalcolithic and Early Bronze Ages. Archaeological digs have unearthed royal tombs, gold ornaments, and stunning sun disks that reflect the artistry and spiritual beliefs of the ancient Hattian people. The famous Sphinx Gate, dating to around 1400 BCE, marks the entrance to a fortified city that flourished nearly four thousand years ago. Walking through it, you can almost sense the echoes of processions and rituals that once animated this sacred ground.

Things to See and Do

The star attraction at Alacahöyük is the monumental gate flanked by sphinxes, intricately carved from stone. Nearby, you'll find the remains of temples, storage rooms, and walls bearing Hittite reliefs that depict chariots and ceremonial scenes. The on-site museum showcases exquisite gold and bronze artifacts discovered during early excavations, giving visitors a closer look at the refinement of Anatolia's ancient cultures.

This spot is one of the top sights in Boğazkale, offering both an archaeological experience and a peaceful rural escape. It's also a highlight of any walking tour of Boğazkale, often paired with a visit to the nearby Hattusa ruins — the former Hittite capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How to Get There

Alacahöyük lies about 36 km northwest of Boğazkale and can be reached by car in around 40 minutes. There are no direct buses, so it's best to hire a taxi from Boğazkale or join a local guided tour that includes both Hattusa and Alacahöyük. The roads are good, but signage can be limited — GPS or a local driver is recommended.

Practical Tips

Best time to visit: April to October, when weather is mild and excavation areas are open.
Entrance fee in Euros: Around €3–€4 (subject to change).
Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM (summer); shorter in winter.
Official website: muze.gov.tr
How long to spend: 1–2 hours is ideal.
Accessibility: The terrain is uneven but manageable for most visitors; limited wheelchair access.
Facilities: Small ticket office, restrooms, and shaded rest areas.
Photography tip: Visit in the morning for softer light on the Sphinx Gate carvings.
Guided tours: Available from Boğazkale or as part of multi-site Hittite tours.
Nearby food options: A few roadside cafes in Alaca town (about 10 km away).

Is Alacahöyük Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. While smaller than Hattusa, Alacahöyük delivers a more personal experience — quieter, less commercial, and deeply evocative. It's ideal for travelers who love history, archaeology, or offbeat destinations that still feel authentic. Combined with Boğazkale, it makes for a memorable exploration of Türkiye's ancient heartland.

Nearby Attractions

Hattusa – The sprawling ruins of the Hittite capital, with monumental gates and temples.
Yazılıkaya – An open-air rock sanctuary featuring striking Hittite relief carvings.
Alaca Town – A small Anatolian town with local eateries and market stalls.
Çorum Museum – Displays exquisite artifacts from Alacahöyük and surrounding sites.

Alacahöyük is not just a stop for history buffs — it's a journey back in time through the layers of Anatolia's early civilizations.

The Alacahöyük appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Ankara!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!