Intro:
Göbekli Tepe is a Neolithic sanctuary located in the Southeastern Anatolia Region of Turkey, near the city of Şanlıurfa. It is considered to be one of the oldest and most important archaeological discoveries of the 21st century, with its remains dating back to around 11,000 years ago.
The Temple's Discovery:
Göbekli Tepe was first identified as a potential archaeological site in the 1960s but was not fully excavated until the 1990s. German archaeologist Klaus Schmidt began working on the site in 1996 and quickly realized that the structures at Göbekli Tepe were unlike anything ever seen before. The site has since been extensively studied, revealing a complex of megaliths and stones carefully arranged to form circular structures.
The Significance of Göbekli Tepe:
The discovery of Göbekli Tepe has challenged the traditional understanding of the development of human society. It is now believed that the construction of such complex structures predates the advent of agriculture and the rise of civilization, which suggests that early human societies were capable of complex organization and cooperation long before the development of cities and states.
The Temple's Architecture:
Göbekli Tepe consists of several circular structures made up of massive stone pillars and slabs. The pillars are decorated with carvings of animals, symbols, and abstract designs, showcasing the sophisticated artistic abilities of the ancient people who built the temple. Some of the pillars reach up to 20 feet tall and weigh over 16 tons. The structures are surrounded by a trench, possibly for defensive purposes.
The Purpose of Göbekli Tepe
The exact purpose of Göbekli Tepe is still unknown, but it is believed to have served as a place of worship or a center of religious or cultural importance. The carvings on the pillars suggest that the temple was used for rituals and ceremonies, possibly related to astronomical events and the cycles of the seasons.
Outro:
Göbekli Tepe is a significant discovery that sheds light on the sophistication and creativity of early human societies. Its impact on our understanding of the development of human civilization cannot be overstated, highlighting the important role that religion and spirituality played in shaping our world. The site is open to visitors and is located near the city of Şanlıurfa in Turkey.
FAQ
Where is Göbekli Tepe?
Göbekli Tepe is located within the borders of Şanlıurfa. Göbekli Tepe is about 15 kilometres northeast of the city center, near the village of Örencik. This area is in The Fertile Crescent that was home to some of the earliest human civilizations.
Göbekli Tepe Opening Hours
Gobekli Tepe opening hours are between 08:00 in the morning and 19:00 in the evening between April 1 and October 31, the summer season. It is closed at 17:00 between 1 November and 1 April, which is considered as the winter season. Gobeklitepe can be visited every day of the week. There may be changes in the visiting hours of Gobekli Tepe due to various activities or restorations. Therefore, you are advised to visit the official website of the museum to see the latest status before you go.
What else is on Site
There is also a small museum at Gobekli Tepe that you can visit. Actually, Gobekli tepe museum is like a reception center that has Gobekli Tepe souvenirs, market shopping, information, 3D animation, etc. inside. A small cafe and restrooms.
Gobekli Tepe Turkey Entrance Fee
Gobekli Tepe tickets are ₺90 Turkish Liras in 2023 for each visitor. But if you have Turkey Museum pass, you can visit Gobekli Tepe without extra payment. Tickets are free for children under the age of 8. Some of Gobekli Tepe travel tours cover Gobekli Tepe entrance fee as well but it is better to check the schedule’s details.
How can I get Şanlıurfa?
There are direct flights to Şanlıurfa from many cities including Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya… If there are no direct flights from your city, you can go there by indirect flights. If you prefer the bus, you can look at bus tickets. It takes 19 hours to go to Şanlıurfa from Istanbul and 12 hours from Ankara.
How can I get from Şanlıurfa GAP Airport to Göbekli Tepe?
Unfortunately, there is no direct public transportation between the airport and Göbekli Tepe. If you want to go to Göbekli Tepe by using public transport, firstly you must go to the Şanlıurfa city centre. The Şanlıurfa Airport is about 49.7 kilometres from Göbeklitepe. So, you can also rent a private vehicle for direct transfers from the airport to Göbekli Tepe.
Transportation to Göbekli Tepe via taxi
You can take a taxi to Göbekli Tepe from the city centre. It would cost between TL 60 and TL 80. If you negotiate with the driver you may lower the price. If you prefer to take a taxi from the airport, the price could be higher.
Transportation to Göbekli Tepe via public transportation
You can use bus number 0 to go to Göbekli Tepe. You can get on the bus from Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum, Abide stop, very central point or from other stops. Ticket prices are pretty cheap. Full TL 6, teacher TL 5, and students TL 4. Due to changing situations, prices can change slightly. You can access more information from the Şanlıurfa Municipality and their website about current fare policy and departure times.
Top 5 Gobekli Tepe Tours 2023
Here are amazing 2023 Turkey tours that includes Gobeklitepe as well. Those cultural and archaeological tours Turkey are very fulfilling vacation options for you and your beloved ones!
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