Göbeklitepe: Discovering the 12,000-Year-Old Wonder in Turkey

Introduction to Göbeklitepe

Perched on a dry limestone hillside in southeastern Turkey, Göbeklitepe may not seem impressive at first glance. However, beneath this unassuming hill lies one of the oldest known archaeological sites in the world, dating back 12,000 years. This means it predates Stonehenge by approximately 6,000 years and the Egyptian Pyramids by around 7,000 years.

Signposted and mapped throughout Turkey as "Göbeklitepe," the site was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018, a designation that underscores its historical significance.

Exploring the History of the Site

So far, archaeologists have excavated only about 10% of Göbeklitepe. Geophysical surveys indicate that many areas concealing other massive structures remain buried underground. What you can currently see are large T-shaped limestone pillars arranged in circles, adorned with carvings of wild animals and abstract human symbols.

This site belongs to the Neolithic period before pottery, beginning around 9500 BC and remaining active for about 1,500 years before its inhabitants moved on.

Shifting Perspectives on Early Civilization

Before the discovery of Göbeklitepe, the common narrative of human development suggested that people transitioned from hunting and gathering to agriculture and permanent settlement, leading to architectural advancements. However, Göbeklitepe has dramatically altered this perspective. It was hunter-gatherers—who had not yet domesticated plants or animals—who constructed these colossal stone structures.

German archaeologist Klaus Schmidt recognized the uniqueness of Göbeklitepe in 1994 and began excavations the following year. His findings prompted a reevaluation of how ancient societies may have functioned.

The Stone Pillars and Enclosures

Upon entering the protected area of Göbeklitepe, you are immediately struck by the sheer scale of the stone pillars. These T-shaped limestone columns, some reaching nearly 5 meters high, are arranged in circles, with the two largest pillars serving as the focal points of each circle.

Archaeologists designate the main areas here as A to D, but ground surveys suggest that many structures remain undiscovered. Each pillar is carved from local bedrock using flint tools before being erected.

Carvings and Their Significance

The T-shape is often interpreted as a human symbol. Upon closer inspection, you can see details such as arms and fingers carved along the pillar's shaft, forming a human-like figure. Some pillars even feature engravings resembling belts or animal hides. The animal carvings on the stone pillars, including foxes, wild boars, snakes, cranes, vultures, and aurochs, leave a lasting impression on visitors.

These motifs are not merely decorative; they reflect a coherent plan with repeated imagery, forming a language that we have yet to fully decode. Each surrounding area tells its own story with different images: some pillars focus on a prominent creature, while others are filled with chaotic representations.

Helpful Information for Vietnamese Travelers

When planning a trip to Göbeklitepe, Vietnamese travelers should note that Turkey requires a visa for Vietnamese citizens. The visa fee typically ranges from 1,300,000 to 1,800,000 VND and can be applied for online. From Vietnam, you can fly directly to Istanbul, and then take a domestic flight or bus to Şanlıurfa, the nearest city to Göbeklitepe.

Round-trip airfare from Vietnam to Istanbul is estimated to range from 12,000,000 to 20,000,000 VND, depending on when you book. Be sure to check the weather before you go; the best times to visit Göbeklitepe are in spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its most stunning.

If you love exploring history, Göbeklitepe is a must-visit destination on your journey. Prepare thoroughly and enjoy your trip to one of the oldest places on the planet.

Article adapted from: Touropia