Capital of the Hittite kingdom, the city of Bogazkale stands amid a spectacular backdrop of rocks at an altitude of 1 000m. The site has retained its temple – a cultural complex with storerooms used for both temporal and spiritual purposes, which dates from around 1900 BC. The ruins of the temple clearly show its original layout. The fortifications are not quite as old but eloquently demonstrate the Hittites’ building expertise, with their lists, vaulted galleries, defensive gates, watchtowers and underground rooms. These architectural innovations inspired many civilisations over the following centuries.