Göbekli Tepe: A Unique Archaeological Site in Southeastern Turkey

Göbekli Tepe (Turkish for “Potbelly Hill”) is an extraordinary archaeological site located in the southeastern part of Turkey, approximately 15 km northeast of the city of Şanlıurfa. This enigmatic megalithic structure has captured the attention of archaeologists and tourists alike since its discovery in 1994.

Brief History

Göbekli Tepe dates back to the Pre-Pottery Neolithic period, around 9600 BC – making it 7,000 years older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Egypt! It was built by hunter-gatherer tribes who were transitioning into an agricultural society. The site remained a secret for thousands of years until its rediscovery in 1994 by a German archaeologist, Klaus Schmidt.

Description of Göbekli Tepe

Göbekli Tepe consists of several T-shaped limestone pillars arranged in circles. These pillars are intricately carved with various symbols, animals, and human figures. The most notable features are the large, central “altar” stone and a series of smaller enclosures surrounding it. Each enclosure contains one or more T-shaped pillars adorned with carvings.

The Significance of Göbekli Tepe

The discovery of Göbekli Tepe challenges many preconceived notions about early human societies. Unlike previously believed, these people did not build their settlements around practical matters such as agriculture or shelter; instead, they built monumental structures to serve religious purposes. This suggests that religion may have played a much more significant role in the development of human civilization than previously thought.

Visitor Information

Getting There

The closest international airport is Şanlıurfa’s Gazi Erdem International Airport, which has flights from several major Turkish cities and some European destinations. From there, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Göbekli Tepe (about a 1-hour drive).

Opening Hours

Göbekli Tepe is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM. It is closed on Mondays and during national holidays.

Entrance Fee

The entrance fee for tourists is approximately $7 USD.

Guided Tours

Guided tours are available in English, German, French, Spanish, and other languages upon request. It’s recommended to book a guided tour to get the most out of your visit.

What to Bring

Visitors should bring sunscreen, hats, comfortable walking shoes, water, and snacks. The site is located in a rural area with limited facilities.

Tips for Visiting Göbekli Tepe

1. Wear appropriate clothing: Respect local customs by covering your shoulders and knees while visiting religious sites or rural areas.

2. Stay on designated paths: To preserve the ancient site, please stay on the marked trails at all times.

3. Bring a good camera: Göbekli Tepe is an amazing place to capture some stunning photographs.

4. Visit during the cooler months: The summers in southeastern Turkey can be very hot, making it uncomfortable for outdoor activities like visiting Göbekli Tepe.

5. Explore nearby attractions: Consider visiting nearby sites such as Şanlıurfa’s ancient city, the Balıklıgöl (fish pool), or the Nebi Yunus Mosque while you’re in the area.