Çorum Travel Guide: Where History, Nature, and Flavor Come Together
Located in the heart of Turkey, Çorum is far more than the land of roasted chickpeas (leblebi). It is a crossroads of civilizations, home to breathtaking natural beauty, ancient archaeological treasures, and warm Anatolian hospitality. Positioned between the Black Sea and Central Anatolia regions, the city carries traces of countless civilizations including the Hittites, Phrygians, Romans, Seljuks, and Ottomans.
If you’re looking for a place where you can walk through thousands of years of history while enjoying peaceful nature, Çorum is exactly the city you should visit.
1. Hattusa Ancient City – The Capital of the Hittites (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
📍 Boğazkale (Boğazköy)
Hattusa served as the capital of the Hittite Empire around 1600 BC and is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Turkey. The city’s monumental gates, temples, palaces, and fortifications reveal the grandeur of this ancient civilization.
Highlights to Explore:
- Lion Gate
- King’s Gate
- Yerkapı Tunnel
- Great Temple
- Royal Palace
💡 Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning for magical lighting and peaceful photography opportunities.
2. Yazılıkaya – The Open-Air Sanctuary of the Hittites
📍 Only 2 km from Hattusa
Yazılıkaya is the sacred open-air temple where the Hittites carved their gods into stone. The rock reliefs, especially the procession of 12 Hittite deities, are over 3,000 years old and still incredibly well-preserved.
✔ Perfect stop for history lovers and photography enthusiasts.
3. Çorum Castle – A Timeless Landmark in the City Center
📍 Kale District, Çorum City Center
Built during the Seljuk period, Çorum Castle features a square design constructed with cut stone and brick. Surrounding the castle are traditional houses, small shops, and cozy local cafés.
💡 Tip: Visit during sunset for panoramic views of the city.
4. Ulu Mosque – A Fine Example of Seljuk Architecture
📍 Çorum City Center
The Ulu Mosque represents the elegant minimalism of Anatolian Seljuk architecture. Its brick minaret, wooden craftsmanship, and stone details make it one of the city’s cultural gems. The surrounding streets are full of traditional artisan shops.
5. İncesu Canyon – A Paradise for Nature Lovers
📍 Ortaköy District
At 12.5 kilometers long, İncesu Canyon is one of Çorum’s most impressive natural wonders. Water flowing between tall rock walls creates an ideal route for hiking and photography.
Activities:
- Hiking trails
- Nature walks
- Canoeing
- Photography tours
💡 Tip: Visit early in the morning to witness the mist floating above the canyon.
6. Alacahöyük – The Birthplace of Anatolian Civilizations
📍 30 km from Boğazkale
Alacahöyük is one of Turkey’s oldest excavation sites. The discoveries here—especially the famous Sun Disk—are iconic symbols of ancient Anatolia.
Must-See Spots:
- Alacahöyük Museum
- Royal Tombs
- Sphinx Gate
💡 Did You Know?
The Sun Disk found here later became the official symbol of Çorum.
7. Çatak Nature Park – The Best Spot for Picnics and Camping
📍 20 km from the city center, near Bozboğa Village
Surrounded by lush forests and a peaceful pond, Çatak Nature Park offers the perfect escape for visitors seeking fresh air and tranquility.
Great for:
- Picnics
- Camping (tent or caravan)
- Bird watching
- Nature photography
8. Çorum Archaeological Museum – A Journey Through Time
📍 Gazi Street, Çorum Center
The museum houses thousands of artifacts from the Hittite, Phrygian, Roman, and Byzantine periods. The Hittite clay tablets are especially significant and draw attention from historians around the world.
🎟️ Müzekart is valid and entry fees are affordable.
9. Kargı Plateau – Cool Breeze and Natural Beauty
📍 Kargı District
High-altitude meadows, waterfalls, cold springs, and organic village products make Kargı Plateau a refreshing retreat.
🍯 Taste This:
Try the famous Kargı Tulum Cheese and local butter.
10. İskilip Castle & Rock Tombs – History Carved in Stone
📍 İskilip District
Perched on top of a rocky hill, İskilip Castle offers stunning views of the entire district. Rock tombs at its base date back to ancient civilizations.
✔ A wonderful location for travelers who enjoy historical landscapes.
11. Must-Try Local Dishes of Çorum
A trip to Çorum is not complete without tasting its traditional dishes:
🍲 İskilip Dolması – A slow-cooked meat and rice dish from Ottoman palace cuisine.
🍢 Çorum Leblebi – Famous roasted chickpeas in dozens of varieties.
🍞 Tandır Bread – Baked in stone ovens, warm and aromatic.
🍯 Kargı Tulum Cheese – A must-have at breakfast.
12. Şapinuva Ancient City – A Silent Witness of Hittite History
📍 Ortaköy District
Not as well-known as Hattusa, but historically significant. Şapinuva was a major military and administrative center during the Hittite Empire.
✔ Peaceful, quiet, and ideal for archaeology enthusiasts.
13. Traditional Çorum Houses – Ottoman Architecture Preserved
In the city center—especially around Velipaşa Han and Kale District—beautifully restored Ottoman mansions stand proudly with their wooden structures and bay windows.
Perfect for nostalgic photography.
14. Kunduzlu Plateau – For Camping and Trekking Lovers
📍 Near Osmancık District
Ideal for hiking, camping, and mountain biking. During summer, its cool climate and blooming hillsides offer a peaceful retreat.
Çorum: A Quiet Yet Profound Anatolian City
Çorum is one of those places where you can feel the depth of history with every step and experience the warmth of Anatolian culture in every meal. Whether you follow the ancient footsteps of the Hittites or enjoy nature in İncesu Canyon, Çorum welcomes all its visitors with a peaceful and authentic atmosphere.
✨ Sometimes, the most beautiful destinations are the ones waiting quietly to be discovered.