Hittites

Hattusa, capital of the Hittite Empire 04

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Furniture support- female sphinx with Hathor-style curls MET DP110464

Hattusa Yerkapi rampant

Drinking cup in the shape of a fist, MFA, Boston (11244059164)

Hittites were an ancient Anatolian people who played a significant role in establishing an empire centered in Hattusa in north-central Anatolia around 1600 BC. This empire reached its height during the mid-14th century BC under Suppiluliuma I, when it encompassed an area that included most of Anatolia as well as parts of the northern Levant and Upper Mesopotamia.

Origins and Rise

The origins of the Hittites can be traced back to the pre-existing local cultures in Anatolia, with their history beginning to coalesce around the 19th century BC. By the 17th century BC, they had consolidated their power in central Anatolia and established their capital at Hattusa. The early period of their history is marked by the adoption of an Indo-European language, which they used in conjunction with the native Hattic language and Hurrian languages.

Empire and Governance

The Hittite Empire was known for its advanced legal system and the use of cuneiform script for official and monumental inscriptions, primarily in the Akkadian language, which was the diplomatic lingua franca of the time. Their governance was characterized by a feudal system, with the king at the top, followed by nobles, then free citizens, and finally slaves. The empire was divided into various provinces, each ruled by appointed officials who reported directly to the king.

Culture and Religion

Hittite culture was a blend of indigenous traditions and the influences of the conquered peoples. Their pantheon was vast, incorporating gods from different cultures, including Hurrian, Mesopotamian, and Hattian deities. The storm god Teshub was among the most important gods in their pantheon. Religious practices included elaborate rituals and festivals, and the Hittites were known for their tolerance of other cultures and religions.

Military and Warfare

The Hittites are credited with the development of chariot warfare, which became a critical component of their military strategy. Their army was highly organized, and they were among the first to use iron extensively for weapons and armor, giving them a significant advantage over their enemies.

Decline and Fall

The decline of the Hittite Empire began in the late 13th century BC, due to a combination of factors including internal strife, invasions by the Sea Peoples, and the rise of new powers such as the Assyrians and Babylonians. By 1200 BC, the empire had fractured into several "Neo-Hittite" city-states, which survived in some form until around 700 BC.

Legacy

The Hittites left a lasting legacy in the region, particularly in the form of their legal codes and advancements in metallurgy. Their history and culture have been pieced together through archaeological excavations and the decipherment of their cuneiform inscriptions, providing valuable insights into the Bronze Age civilization of Anatolia.

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