GobeklitepePlaces to Visit in Sanliurfa

Located near the city of Şanlıurfa in southeastern Turkey, Göbeklitepe is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the modern age. It is widely recognized as the oldest known temple complex in the world, dating back to around 9600 BCE.

Göbeklitepe was first discovered in 1963 during a survey led by the University of Istanbul and the University of Chicago, but its true importance was not recognized until German archaeologist Klaus Schmidt began excavations in 1995. Schmidt and his team uncovered a series of circular stone structures, some of which are over 12,000 years old. These findings have reshaped our understanding of early human societies.

At the heart of Göbeklitepe are massive stone pillars arranged in circles, many of which are carved with intricate animal motifs such as lions, boars, and vultures. These pillars, some standing as tall as 5.5 meters and weighing up to 10 tons, demonstrate the incredible engineering skills of early humans. The site predates Stonehenge by more than 6,000 years, suggesting that complex, organized societies existed much earlier than previously thought.

Göbeklitepe challenges traditional views of the Neolithic era. Previously, it was believed that agriculture and settled life led to the development of religious structures, but Göbeklitepe suggests the opposite: religion may have been a driving force behind the shift to a more sedentary, agricultural lifestyle.

The exact purpose of Göbeklitepe remains a mystery. Scholars believe it was a religious or ceremonial site, but its symbolism is still debated. The animal carvings and abstract symbols on the pillars may have represented cosmological or spiritual beliefs, and the site could have been a place of pilgrimage for people across the region. Its construction indicates a level of social organization and cooperation that was previously unthinkable for such an early period of human history.

Today, Göbeklitepe is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts thousands of visitors each year. Efforts to preserve the site are ongoing, and a protective roof has been installed over the main excavation areas to shield the ancient stones from weathering. Göbeklitepe offers an unparalleled glimpse into the early stages of human civilization, and its continued study promises to reveal even more about our ancient past.

If you're interested in history, archaeology, or simply marveling at the achievements of early humans, Göbeklitepe is a must-visit destination.