Gobekli Tepe is a prehistoric site located in the Southeastern Anatolia Region of Turkiye, near the city of Sanliurfa. It is famous for its monumental megalithic structures built by hunter-gatherers during the Pre-Pottery Neolithic period. It is considered one of the most important archaeological discoveries in recent times as it challenges many conventional theories about the development of human civilization. Here are some key points about Gobekli Tepe:
Discovery and Significance:
Gobekli Tepe was discovered in 1963 during a joint surface survey conducted by Istanbul and Chicago Universities. Initially referred to as the “V52 Neolithic Settlement,” its true value became apparent through subsequent excavation work starting in 1994.
The site’s significance lies in its role as a 12,000-year-old cult center. It predates other monumental structures like the Egyptian Pyramids and Stonehenge by approximately 7,500 years.
Gobekli Tepe challenges existing theories about the Neolithic period and forces a reevaluation of dating frameworks and conceptual understanding. The discovery of Göbekli Tepe has sparked much debate and speculation among archaeologists and historians. Some researchers suggest that the site may have served as a ceremonial or religious center where ancient people gathered for rituals or communal activities. Others propose that Göbekli Tepe may have played a role in the transition from hunter-gatherer societies to settled agricultural communities, marking a significant turning point in human history.
Architectural Features:
The site consists of approximately 20 circular and oval structures with diameters reaching up to 30 meters.
Each structure contains massive stone pillars arranged in a circle. These pillars are T-shaped and stand independently, reaching a height of 5 meters. Smaller pillars are also found within the inner walls of the structures.
The carvings on the T-shaped pillars depict wild animals and other symbolic figures.
