Çorum is a mid-sized city in north-central Turkey, perched on the Anatolian plateau at roughly 800 m elevation. It serves as the provincial capital and is best known as the jumping-off point for the UNESCO World Heritage Hittite sites of Hattuşa and Alacahöyük. The city itself harbours a fine archaeological museum, animated bazaars, and a tradition of producing Turkey's finest roasted chickpeas (leblebi). Visitors find a genuinely local atmosphere, affordable prices, and easy day-trip access to some of the most consequential ruins in the ancient world.
Best photo spots
Iconic and lesser-known locations worth shooting.
Hattuşa Lions Gate at Sunrise
Best time: 07:00–09:00 (golden hour); arrive when site opens at 08:00
Yazılıkaya Rock Reliefs
Best time: 11:00–14:00 (light enters narrow rock corridors; afternoon for Chamber B)
Çorum Castle Hilltop Panorama
Best time: 17:00–19:00 (late afternoon golden light over city rooftops)
Çorum Covered Bazaar – Leblebi Colour
Best time: 10:00–12:00 (market activity at peak, soft diffuse light inside)
Alacahöyük Sphinx Gate
Best time: 09:00–11:00 (eastern light on the sphinx relief); or 16:00–18:00
Osmancık Kızılırmak Reflection
Best time: 07:00–09:00 (river mist in autumn; bridge reflection on still water)
Hattuşa King's Gate Relief
Best time: 14:00–16:00 (south-facing; afternoon raking light reveals relief depth)
Çorum Steppe Landscape from Road to Hattuşa
Best time: 08:00–10:00 (morning light on rolling golden steppe)
By subject
Match your shooting interest to Çorum's strengths.
Items photography
Best times to shoot
Light, weather, and seasonal considerations.
Photography tips
Make your shots stand out.
Shoot during golden hour (1 hour after sunrise, 1 hour before sunset) for warm, directional light.
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in religious or cultural contexts.
Carry spare batteries and storage — opportunities for great shots appear unexpectedly.