Acemhöyük

The most suitable periods to visit Acemhöyük are April-May and September-October. During these seasons, the harsh climate of Central Anatolia softens; you won't encounter extreme heat or cold while walking on the mound. In mid-summer, the Aksaray region can be quite hot and dry; if you plan to visit in summer, we recommend choosing the early morning hours. Winter visits are not highly recommended, considering that the ground can be muddy and access might be difficult.

During active excavation seasons (usually early summer and autumn), you can observe the archaeology teams working on site, which makes the visit much more interesting.

Acemhöyük is located approximately 18-20 km from Aksaray city center, within the borders of Yeşilova Town. If you are going by private car, simply follow the Aksaray-Nevşehir road and then the Yeşilova sign; the journey takes about 20-25 minutes.

Those preferring public transport should take minibuses from Aksaray Bus Terminal heading to Yeşilova. Since departure times may vary, we recommend getting up-to-date information from the bus terminal ticket offices. You can also easily reach by taxi from Aksaray city center.

Acemhöyük offers a simple yet impressive area for photography. Wide-angle shots taken from the top of the mound capture the endless plains of the Central Anatolian steppe and Mount Hasan rising in the distance. Especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft, the earthy texture of the mound yields beautiful photographs.

Stratigraphic sections near the excavation areas, i.e., wall surfaces where historical layers can be seen, are also perfect spots for interesting detail photos. For those looking to capture a wide landscape frame, the southern slope of the mound offers the best position.

There are no comprehensive dining options immediately around Acemhöyük. We recommend having a meal in Aksaray city center before your visit or bringing snacks with you.

Aksaray cuisine offers the rich flavors of Central Anatolia. In the city, you can find many well-established restaurants serving tarhana soup, etli ekmek (meat bread), tandoor kebab, and local pastries. Small grocery stores might be found in Yeşilova Town; however, if you plan a long visit, it would be practical to bring water and light food with you.

You can combine Acemhöyük with other historical and natural beauties in Aksaray for a full day. You can go to Acemhöyük early in the morning to explore the mound and excavation areas, then return to Aksaray city center to visit the Aksaray Museum; some of the artifacts from the Acemhöyük excavations are exhibited in the museum.

In the afternoon, you can visit the iconic Eğri Minare (Leaning Minaret) and the Grand Mosque of Aksaray. You can end your day by tasting Aksaray's local delicacies. If you can add another day to your program, the nearby Ihlara Valley and Selime Cathedral are excellent stops that complete this itinerary.

Since Acemhöyük is an open archaeological site, it is important to wear comfortable walking shoes; the earthen surface of the mound can be uneven and slippery. Especially after rainy periods, the ground can become muddy.

Be careful not to move any artifacts or stones on the site, and do not enter excavation areas without permission; during active excavation periods, it is necessary to adhere to the designated boundaries to avoid hindering the team's work. Bringing plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat is considered essential, especially in summer. Shaded areas in the vicinity are extremely limited.