17 Astonishing Facts About Hattusa

The Ancient City of Hattusa

Hattusa, also known as Hattusha, was the capital of the Hittite Empire in ancient Anatolia. It flourished during the Late Bronze Age, around 1600 to 1200 BCE. This remarkable city was rediscovered in the early 20th century and has since revealed many astonishing facts about its history and significance in the ancient world.

The Hittites and Their Empire

The Hittites were an ancient civilization that rose to prominence in the region around 1800 BCE. They established a powerful empire with Hattusa as its capital and controlled vast territories in Anatolia and northern Syria. Their empire reached its peak under the rule of King Suppiluliuma I and encompassed diverse cultures and ethnicities.

The Gigantic City Walls

One of the most astonishing features of Hattusa is its impressive city walls. These walls stretched for over 6 kilometers and were reinforced with towers and gates. The sheer scale and engineering expertise involved in constructing these walls showcase the advanced architectural skills of the Hittites.

The Lion Gate

At the entrance of the city, visitors are greeted by the stunning Lion Gate. This monumental gate features two stone lions, symbolizing strength and power. The intricate carvings and attention to detail highlight the Hittite craftsmanship and artistic prowess.

The Great Temple

Hattusa was home to many grand temples, but the most notable was the Great Temple. This sacred sanctuary was dedicated to the Hittite storm god, Teshub. The remains of the temple reveal exquisite stone carvings and elaborate religious rituals that were performed by the Hittite priests.

The Royal Palace

Within Hattusa, the royal palace served as the residence of the Hittite kings. This magnificent structure consisted of multiple chambers, courtyards, and ceremonial halls. The palace not only exemplified the Hittite architectural prowess but also exhibited their royal lifestyle and administrative power.

The Sphinx Gate

Similar to the famous Sphinx Gate in Egypt, Hattusa boasts its own Sphinx Gate. This impressive structure featured sphinxes and winged lions guarding the entrance. It served both as a symbolic representation of the Hittite culture and as a security measure to protect the city.

The Cuneiform Tablets

Archaeologists unearthed thousands of cuneiform tablets in Hattusa, providing valuable insights into politics, religion, and daily life during the Hittite Empire. These clay tablets were inscribed with the wedge-shaped script of the Hittite language, and their discoveries greatly contributed to our understanding of the ancient world and the Hittite civilization.

The Secret Tunnel Network

Beneath the city of Hattusa lies an intricate network of secret tunnels. These tunnels served various purposes, including clandestine military movements and as escape routes during times of conflict. The discovery of these tunnels added a sense of intrigue and mystery to the already captivating city.

The Sphinxes of Hattusa

Another remarkable feature of Hattusa is the presence of numerous sphinx statues throughout the city. These mythical creatures with the body of a lion and the head of a human or animal were revered in Hittite culture as guardians of royalty and sacred spaces.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site

In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, Hattusa was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in This status has helped preserve the ancient city and promotes its exploration and study for future generations.

The Sacred Puduhepa Rock Sanctuary

Located near Hattusa, the Puduhepa Rock Sanctuary is a sacred site dedicated to the Hittite queen Puduhepa. It features rock carvings and inscriptions that pay homage to the influential queen and provide valuable insights into the religious beliefs and rituals of the Hittites.

The Hittite Chariot Warfare

The Hittites were renowned for their mastery of chariot warfare. Their highly skilled charioteers and innovative battle tactics made them a formidable force in ancient times. The military prowess of the Hittites played a crucial role in their rise to power and the defense of Hattusa.

The Hittite Law Code

The Hittite Empire was one of the first civilizations to establish a comprehensive legal system. The Hittite law code, known as the “Laws of Hattusa,” covered various aspects of society, including crime, marriage, property rights, and inheritance. These laws provided structure and governance for the Hittite society and influenced subsequent legal systems.

The Rock Sanctuary of Yaz?l?kaya

Yaz?l?kaya, located near Hattusa, is an impressive rock sanctuary adorned with intricate reliefs. These reliefs depict various gods and goddesses of the Hittite pantheon, providing valuable insights into their religious beliefs and practices.

The Enduring Legacy of Hattusa

Despite its eventual decline and abandonment, Hattusa left an indelible mark on history. The discoveries made at this ancient city have enriched our understanding of the Hittite civilization and its contributions to art, architecture, religion, governance, and warfare.

The Hittite Hieroglyphic Script

The Hittites developed their own hieroglyphic script, which was primarily used for inscriptions on monumental stone sculptures and jewelry. The decipherment of this script has allowed historians to unravel the Hittite language and gain deeper insights into their culture and society.

These astonishing facts about Hattusa reveal its significance as a center of ancient civilization. The 17 remarkable features of this once-thriving city provide a glimpse into the fascinating world of the Hittites and their enduring legacy. From monumental gates and temples to secret tunnels and legal codes, Hattusa continues to captivate archaeologists, historians, and curious visitors alike.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hattusa is a truly astonishing historical site that holds immense significance in the ancient world. Its rich history, architectural marvels, and cultural importance make it a must-visit for history buffs and travelers alike. From the massive city walls to the majestic Lion Gate, the wonders of Hattusa continue to captivate and awe visitors from around the globe. The city’s role as the capital of the Hittite Empire and its subsequent abandonment and rediscovery add an intriguing layer to its narrative. With its UNESCO World Heritage status and ongoing archaeological excavations, Hattusa promises to reveal even more fascinating secrets about the past. Exploring Hattusa is like stepping back in time and immersing oneself in a truly remarkable ancient civilization.

FAQs

1. What is Hattusa?

Hattusa is an ancient city located in modern-day Turkey. It served as the capital of the Hittite Empire during the late Bronze Age.

2. How old is Hattusa?

Hattusa dates back over 3,500 years, with its peak during the 14th and 13th centuries BCE.

3. Why is Hattusa important?

Hattusa is important because it provides valuable insights into the Hittite civilization, one of the major powers in the ancient Near East.

4. Can I visit Hattusa?

Yes, Hattusa is open to visitors. It is a popular tourist destination and offers guided tours to explore its fascinating ruins.

5. What are some notable landmarks in Hattusa?

Some notable landmarks in Hattusa include the Great Temple, the Royal Palace, the Sphinx Gate, and the Yaz?l?kaya rock sanctuary.

6. Is Hattusa a UNESCO World Heritage site?

Yes, Hattusa was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1986 due to its outstanding universal value.

7. Are there ongoing archaeological excavations in Hattusa?

Yes, archaeological excavations are still taking place in Hattusa, uncovering new insights into the ancient city and its history.

8. What can I expect to see at Hattusa?

At Hattusa, you can expect to see impressive city walls, intricate stone carvings, well-preserved temples, and other remnants of the ancient civilization.

9. How can I get to Hattusa?

Hattusa is located in central Turkey. The nearest major airport is in Ankara, and from there, you can take a bus or hire a car to reach the ancient site.

10. Is there any accommodation near Hattusa?

Yes, there are accommodation options available near Hattusa, including hotels and guesthouses in nearby towns.