Allişar Höyük: A Bronze Age Legacy in the Heart of Central Anatolia

Located in the Yozgat Province of Central Anatolia, Allişar Höyük is one of the most important archaeological sites in Türkiye, bearing witness to over four millennia of continuous human settlement. This impressive mound, or “höyük,” played a crucial role during the Early and Middle Bronze Ages and later as a Hittite provincial center. With layers dating back to the 4th millennium BCE, Alişar Höyük offers a fascinating glimpse into Anatolia’s ancient civilizations long before the rise of empires like the Hittites and Assyrians.

A Journey Through Time

Alişar Höyük’s strategic location on trade routes between Anatolia and Mesopotamia contributed to its prosperity and significance. Excavations reveal that the site was continuously occupied from the Chalcolithic period (ca. 4000 BCE) until the Phrygian period. However, its golden era occurred during the Middle Bronze Age (ca. 2000–1700 BCE), when Allişar is believed to have been a regional capital and administrative center, possibly linked to the city of Ilushiya, which appears in Assyrian trade tablets.

The uppermost layers of the mound reveal Hittite-period architecture, pottery, and seals, showing that the site maintained its importance during the Hittite Empire (ca. 1650–1200 BCE). Archaeologists have uncovered multi-room buildings, fortifications, and storage areas, pointing to an organized urban society with complex governance and trade networks.

Excavation History

Alişar Höyük was first excavated by the American Oriental Institute in the 1920s and 1930s under the direction of Hans Henning von der Osten. These early excavations revealed a rich cultural stratigraphy and established Allişar as a key site for understanding Bronze Age Anatolia. Today, its remains are partially preserved, and although not a fully open-air museum, the site is accessible for those passionate about ancient history and archaeology.

Visitor Experience

The mound rises gently from the Yozgat plains, offering panoramic views of the surrounding steppe landscape. While there is limited infrastructure, visitors can explore the site on foot. Informational signage is minimal, so those who come often do so with guides or prior knowledge of Anatolian archaeology. The remote, tranquil setting allows for quiet reflection and appreciation of this once-bustling Bronze Age city.

The site is especially attractive to archaeology enthusiasts, history students, and travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations in Türkiye. Its relative obscurity makes Allişar Höyük a hidden gem, offering an authentic experience far from crowded tourist routes.

How to Get There

Alişar Höyük is located approximately 45 kilometers southeast of Yozgat city center and about 240 kilometers east of Ankara. The site is best reached by private car or a guided tour, as public transportation options are limited. From Ankara, follow the D200 highway to Yozgat, then take the route toward Sorgun and continue to the village of Alişar.

GPS Coordinates: 39.6639° N, 35.4728° E

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Alişar Höyük is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the countryside is green or golden. Summers can be hot and dry, while winters may bring snow or rain, making exploration more challenging. Plan your visit during daylight hours, as there are no lights or facilities on-site.