The world's oldest known temple complex
Gobeklitepe | Urfa
12.000 yrs old !
GOBEKLITEPE | URFA
Urfa man-Oldest known man statue
GOBEKLITEPE | URFA
Göbeklitepe, located in southeastern Turkey, is the world's oldest known temple complex, dating back over 11,000 years, and is considered a groundbreaking site in understanding early human civilization and spirituality.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Gobeklitepe; Archeological site
History
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Göbeklitepe, situated in southeastern Turkey, is the world's oldest known temple complex, dating back to 9600 BCE. Discovered in 1963 and extensively excavated since the 1990s, it reveals monumental T-shaped stone pillars carved with intricate animal motifs, arranged in circular formations. Predating agriculture and written language, Göbeklitepe challenges traditional views of early societies, suggesting that complex rituals and communal gatherings played a central role in human development. This UNESCO World Heritage Site continues to reshape our understanding of prehistoric culture and spirituality.
Stone pillars carved with intricate animal motifs 10.000 BC
What makes it so special
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Göbeklitepe is special because it rewrites the history of human civilization. As the world's oldest known temple complex, it dates back over 11,000 years—long before agriculture, writing, or cities were developed. The site challenges traditional beliefs by showing that early humans built massive structures for spiritual or communal purposes, suggesting that religion and social organization, rather than survival needs, may have driven the shift from hunter-gatherer societies to settled communities. Its intricately carved stone pillars and advanced construction techniques highlight the ingenuity of these prehistoric people, making Göbeklitepe a unique and transformative discovery in archaeology.
Gobeklitepe Arcehological site
How was Gobeklitepe discovered?
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Göbeklitepe was discovered in 1963 during a joint survey by Istanbul University and the University of Chicago. Initially, it was thought to be an unremarkable medieval cemetery due to visible limestone slabs protruding from the ground. However, in 1994, Klaus Schmidt, a German archaeologist, revisited the site and recognized its significance.
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Schmidt began excavations in 1995 and uncovered massive T-shaped stone pillars, intricately carved with animal motifs, arranged in circular formations. These findings revealed that Göbeklitepe was not a burial site but a monumental Neolithic temple complex, built around 9600 BCE. The discovery has since transformed our understanding of prehistoric societies and human history.
Klaus Schmidt -German Archeologist, Gobeklitepe Arcehological site
The area around Göbeklitepe, near Şanlıurfa in southeastern Turkey, is rich in history and culture. Here are some must-visit sites:
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Şanlıurfa (Urfa):
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Balıklıgöl (Pool of Sacred Fish): A serene site linked to the Prophet Abraham, surrounded by beautiful Ottoman architecture.
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Şanlıurfa Archaeology and Mosaic Museum: Features artifacts from Göbeklitepe and other ancient sites, providing deeper context.
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Urfa Castle: A historic fortress offering panoramic views of the city.
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Harran: Known for its unique beehive-shaped mud-brick houses and the remains of an ancient university. This area has been inhabited since the Bronze Age.
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Karahan Tepe: A site similar to Göbeklitepe, located about 60 km away, believed to be part of the same Neolithic cultural network.
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Halfeti: A charming town partially submerged by the Birecik Dam, offering boat tours and scenic views of the Euphrates River.
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Mount Nemrut (a bit further): Famous for its giant stone statues and royal tombs, located atop a mountain with stunning sunrise and sunset views.
These destinations, combined with Göbeklitepe, make southeastern Turkey a treasure trove for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
Urfa Arcehological Museum
Urfa city center -Balıklıgol
MIRRA COFFEE : A SIP OF TRADITION AND CULTURE
Mırra is a traditional, highly concentrated Turkish-Arabic coffee, known for its intense bitterness and unique preparation. The name "mırra" comes from the Arabic word mur, meaning bitter. It is typically brewed with coarsely ground coffee beans boiled multiple times and served in small, handleless cups. Unlike regular coffee, mırra is not sweetened and is sipped slowly in small quantities due to its strong flavor.
Mırra holds cultural significance in southeastern Turkey, particularly in Şanlıurfa, Mardin, and neighboring regions, where it is often served during special occasions, weddings, and social gatherings. Serving mırra is also a gesture of respect, and the cup is usually passed with both hands. Drinking mırra connects people to deep-rooted traditions, making it more than just a beverage—it's a symbol of hospitality and culture.
Urfa city center -Gumruk han and traditional Mırra coffee
MIRRA COFFEE : A SIP OF TRADITION AND CULTURE
Mırra is a traditional, highly concentrated Turkish-Arabic coffee, known for its intense bitterness and unique preparation. The name "mırra" comes from the Arabic word mur, meaning bitter. It is typically brewed with coarsely ground coffee beans boiled multiple times and served in small, handleless cups. Unlike regular coffee, mırra is not sweetened and is sipped slowly in small quantities due to its strong flavor.
Mırra holds cultural significance in southeastern Turkey, particularly in Şanlıurfa, Mardin, and neighboring regions, where it is often served during special occasions, weddings, and social gatherings. Serving mırra is also a gesture of respect, and the cup is usually passed with both hands. Drinking mırra connects people to deep-rooted traditions, making it more than just a beverage—it's a symbol of hospitality and culture.
Urfa handicrafts market in the city center
HOW TO VISIT GOBEKLITEPE FROM ISTANBUL
Visiting Göbeklitepe from Istanbul requires planning, as it is located near Şanlıurfa in southeastern Turkey, about 1,200 km away. Here's how you can visit:
1. By Air (Recommended)
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Flight to Şanlıurfa:
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Take a domestic flight from Istanbul to Şanlıurfa GAP Airport (approximately 1.5–2 hours).
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Airlines like Turkish Airlines or Pegasus Airlines offer regular flights.
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Transfer to Göbeklitepe:
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From the airport, hire a taxi or arrange a private transfer to Göbeklitepe (about a 45-minute drive).
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Alternatively, book a guided tour that includes transportation from Şanlıurfa.
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Combine with Local Attractions:
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Spend the rest of the day exploring Şanlıurfa, visiting the Balıklıgöl, Şanlıurfa Museum, or Harran.
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With a Guided Tour Package
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TOURALI offers 2-day tour package from Istanbul, including flights, accommodations, guided visits to Göbeklitepe, and nearby attractions.
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Tips for Visiting Göbeklitepe
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Best Time: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer pleasant weather for outdoor exploration.
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Tickets: Entrance tickets can be purchased on-site or as part of a tour.
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Guides: Hiring a knowledgeable guide ensures you get the most out of your visit, understanding the historical and cultural significance of Göbeklitepe.
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If you’re short on time, a 1- or 2-day trip by flight is the most efficient option to experience Göbeklitepe from Istanbul.
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