Gobekli Tepe (Turkish for "bellied hill") is an archaeological site in the Turkey, which is believed to be one of the oldest religious centers of mankind. The site near the town of Sanliurfa is approximately 11.000 years old and is an excellent example of people's early religious practices and architectural skills.
History of Gobekli Tepe
Göbekli Tepe was first discovered by archaeologists in 1963, but systematic excavations did not begin until the 1990s. Since then, many important discoveries have improved the understanding of early human History and revolutionized culture. The site is now a major tourist destination and a symbol of Turkish culture and history.
The history of Göbekli Tepe is fascinating and raises many questions about early human culture. This archeological site is located in south-eastern Turkey and is around 11.000 years old. Göbekli Tepe is the oldest known human temple and is considered one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 21st century.
Göbekli Tepe comes from the Time the so-called Fertile Crescent, the region of the Middle East where agriculture originated around 12.000 years ago. Archaeologists believe that people settled around this time and began to form communities. Göbekli Tepe was built during this period and may have served as a place for religious ceremonies and celebrations.
The archaeological finds at Göbekli Tepe are extraordinary and raise many questions. The huge T-shaped columns found there were several meters high and weighed several tons. The columns are decorated with early religious reliefs depicting animals and mythical creatures.
Although the exact meaning of Göbekli Tepe is not fully understood, archaeologists believe it was a place where people formed communities and shared religious beliefs and practices. The discovery of Göbekli Tepe advanced our understanding of early human history and culture and remains an important archaeological discovery.
Sights of Gobekli Tepe
Göbekli Tepe is one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the world and offers visitors a variety of attractions. Here are some of the most famous points of interest & sights:
- T-Shaped Pillars: The pillars are the most notable feature of Göbekli Tepe. There are several circles of columns, each consisting of T-shaped columns decorated with early religious carvings.
- Main Altar: The main altar is located in the center of Göbekli Tepe and is surrounded by four massive T-shaped pillars. Archaeologists believe it was a central site for religious rituals and celebrations.
- Walls: The walls of Göbekli Tepe are decorated with many interesting reliefs depicting animals and mythical creatures. Some of the reliefs are particularly well preserved and offer an insight into the culture and beliefs of the people who built Göbekli Tepe.
- View: Göbekli Tepe is situated on a hilltop with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The views from the archeological site are stunning, looking towards the nearby town of Sanliurfa and the Taurus Mountains in the distance.
- archaeological Museum Sanliurfa: The nearby town of Sanliurfa has an excellent archaeological museum displaying various artefacts from the area and Göbekli Tepe itself. It is worth visiting the museum to learn more about the culture and history of the region.
Tips for visitors to Gobekli Tepe
If you want to visit Göbekli Tepe, here are some tips to help you:
- Plan ahead: Göbekli Tepe, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world, can get very busy in high season. Make sure you plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes: Göbekli Tepe can be very hot and dusty and you have to walk a long way to explore the site. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes to make your visit more comfortable.
- Book a Guided Tour: A guided tour can help you learn more about the history and importance of Göbekli Tepe. The many tours offered by experts can help you understand the history and importance of this fascinating archaeological site.
- Visit the Archaeological Museum of Sanliurfa: The Archaeological Museum of Sanliurfa offers a comprehensive overview of the history and culture of the region and is the ideal starting point for your trip to Göbekli Tepe.
- Respect the Site: Göbekli Tepe is an archaeological site of immense historical and cultural importance. Follow the instructions of the staff, respect the site and do not lean on or touch the columns or bas-reliefs. In this way, you can help ensure that this important site is preserved for future generations.
Transport options to Gobekli Tepe
Göbekli Tepe is located in eastern Turkey, near the city of Sanliurfa. To get there, you can arrive as follows:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Sanliurfa Airport, from where you can take a taxi or a bus to the archaeological site.
- By Bus: There are regular bus services from major cities such as Ankara and and Istanbul to Sanliurfa from where you can take a taxi or a bus to the archaeological site.
- By Car: If arriving by car, access the route via the E80 and D400 motorways and then follow the signs to the archaeological site.
It is important to note that the Göbekli Tepe archaeological site can only be visited with a guide. It is recommended to book tours in advance to avoid disappointment.
Opening times and entrance fee to Göbekli Tepe
The Opening hours and Gobekli Tepe entrance fees may vary depending on the season and other factors. However, here is some basic information:
- Opening hours:
Göbekli Tepe is usually open from 08:00 to 19:00. However, the exact opening times may vary depending on the season. - Entrance fee:
Admission to Göbekli Tepe is currently 80 Turkish lira per person. Children under 12 have free entry. There is also a discount on tuition fees.
It is important to note that entry is only possible with a guide as there are no free tours. The tours usually last about an hour and are available in different languages. It is recommended to book in advance to avoid waiting.
10 Frequently Asked Questions about Göbekli Tepe: Answers to the most important questions
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What is Gobekli Tepe?
Göbekli Tepe is an archaeological site in Turkey believed to be the oldest known human temple and an important contributor to human history.
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When was Gobekli Tepe discovered?
Göbeklitepe was first discovered in 1994.
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When was Göbekli Tepe declared a World Heritage Site?
Göbekli Tepe was founded in July Declared a World Heritage Site in 2018.
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What are the main finds in Gobekli Tepe?
The most important finds at Göbekli Tepe are the huge T-shaped columns, the early religious reliefs and evidence of early architectural skills.
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How old is Gobekli Tepe?
Göbekli Tepe is dated around 11.000 BC. estimated.
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What makes Gobekli Tepe so special?
Göbekli Tepe is special because it is the oldest known temple to mankind and offers a window into early human culture and history.
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Where is Gobekli Tepe located?
Göbekli Tepe is located in eastern Turkey, near the city of Sanliurfa.
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Who discovered Göbekli Tepe?
Göbeklitepe was discovered by an archaeologist named Klaus Schmidt.
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What is the goal of research in Göbekli Tepe?
The goal of research at Göbekli Tepe is to expand and improve the understanding of early human culture and history.
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Why visit Gobekli Tepe?
One should visit Göbekli Tepe to experience a fascinating piece of human history and gain insight into early human culture and history.
Conclusion: Göbekli Tepe – A fascinating archaeological site of enormous historical importance
Overall, Göbekli Tepe is an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in archaeology, history and culture. This is a must-see for all visitors to Turkey who want to experience a unique piece of human history. The archaeological finds and structures of Göbekli Tepe not only demonstrate the people's early religious beliefs and architectural skills, but also their ability to form and organize complex communities.
