General Information about Çorum
Located in Central Anatolia, Çorum is a province rich in history, culture, and gastronomy. With a population of about 505,000 (2024 data), it is one of the most historically significant regions of Turkey, often referred to as the land of the Hittites.
Çorum’s history stretches back over 7,000 years and includes civilizations such as the Hittites, Phrygians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. It was the capital of the Hittite Empire around 1600 BC, leaving behind a wealth of archaeological treasures. Today, Çorum is a UNESCO candidate city for its cultural heritage, especially the Hattusa ruins, which are already on the World Heritage List.
Economically, Çorum is famous for its roasted chickpeas (leblebi), agriculture, and industry. It is a blend of ancient history and modern development, making it attractive for both cultural tourism and regional trade.
Places to Visit in Çorum
- Hattusa (Boğazkale): The ancient capital of the Hittite Empire, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with temples, city walls, and gates like the Lion Gate.
- Alacahöyük: One of Turkey’s most important archaeological sites, with royal tombs dating back to the Hittite period.
- Museum of Çorum: Houses artifacts from the Hittite, Phrygian, and Roman periods.
- Osmancık Koyunbaba Bridge: A 15th-century Ottoman bridge over the Kızılırmak River.
- İskilip Castle: A medieval fortress overlooking the town of İskilip.
- Çorum Clock Tower: Built in the 19th century, a symbol of the city center.
- Incesu Canyon: A natural wonder with trekking and rafting opportunities.
- Katipler Mansion: An Ottoman-era house showcasing traditional architecture.
- Kargı Highlands: Known for their fresh air, meadows, and summer festivals.
- Boğazkale Yazılıkaya: An open-air Hittite sanctuary with rock carvings.
Çorum Bus Terminal
Çorum Intercity Bus Terminal connects the city with many major destinations across Turkey. It is a medium-sized but modern facility.
Facilities include:
- Ticket offices for local and national bus companies
- Comfortable waiting lounges
- Shops and restaurants
- Minibus services to districts like Sungurlu, Osmancık, and İskilip
Travel times: Istanbul–Çorum (~9 hours), Ankara–Çorum (~3.5 hours), Samsun–Çorum (~3 hours).
What to Eat in Çorum?
Çorum’s cuisine is rich, hearty, and reflects both Anatolian and Ottoman traditions.
- Leblebi (Roasted Chickpeas): The city’s most famous product, exported worldwide.
- İskilip Dolması: A festive dish of meat and rice cooked for hours in a cauldron, usually served at weddings and special occasions.
- Keşkek: A ceremonial dish made of wheat and lamb.
- Tirit: Bread soaked in broth with meat.
- Yaprak Sarma: Vine leaves stuffed with rice, meat, and spices.
- Hingel Mantı: A local dumpling dish, served with garlic yogurt and butter.
- Çorum Baklavası: A syrup-soaked dessert unique to the city.
- Etli Pilav (Meat Pilaf): A rice dish cooked with lamb and regional spices.
How to Get to Çorum?
- By Bus: Frequent services connect Çorum with Ankara (~3.5 hours), Istanbul (~9 hours), and Samsun (~3 hours).
- By Air: Çorum does not have its own airport. The nearest are Amasya Merzifon Airport (65 km) and Ankara Esenboğa Airport (230 km).
- By Train: There is no direct railway to Çorum. The nearest major stations are in Ankara and Samsun.
- By Car: Istanbul–Çorum 600 km (~9 hours), Ankara–Çorum 240 km (~3.5 hours), Samsun–Çorum 170 km (~3 hours).
Bus Companies Operating in Çorum
- Metro Turizm
- Varan Turizm
- İskilip Turizm
- Seç Turizm
- Kargı Turizm
Local companies also provide services between Çorum and districts such as Sungurlu, İskilip, and Osmancık.
