Göbeklitepe Archaeological Site

Discover Göbeklitepe, one of the oldest monumental structures in human history, located within the borders of Şanlıurfa, Türkiye, and dating back approximately 12,000 years. Known as the world’s oldest temple, Göbeklitepe has fundamentally altered our understanding of hunter-gatherer societies. In an era before the advent of agriculture and settled life, people of this period erected T-shaped stone pillars weighing up to 15 tons, constructing an advanced cultural center. The intricately carved stone pillars, adorned with animal motifs, show that these communities were not solely focused on survival, but were socially organized, gathering together for ritual purposes. The round structures at Göbeklitepe, used exclusively for rituals and not as living spaces, are considered some of the earliest religious centers in the world. Six such structures have been unearthed to date, featuring 6-meter-tall pillars adorned with intricate animal reliefs, thought to be carved with polished stones, as metal tools were not yet invented. These carvings, rendered in three-dimensional detail, are among the oldest known artworks in the world. Archaeological studies at Göbeklitepe suggest that agriculture and animal husbandry were not the catalysts for settling down, but rather a result of an already established social and ritual life. These findings reveal that the people of that era led complex social lives far beyond mere survival. In 2018, Göbeklitepe was inscribed as Türkiye's 18th UNESCO World Heritage Site, marking a discovery that redefined modern views on human history. This archaeological site provides visitors with a unique window into ancient beliefs and artistic expression, continuously fascinating history enthusiasts and travelers alike. Göbeklitepe invites all who wish to feel the power of faith and human creativity on an awe-inspiring journey back 12,000 years.