Archaeological excavations launched for the first time in the northern sector of Göbeklitepe, located in Şanlıurfa and widely regarded as the zero point of history, have uncovered massive Neolithic public structures and huts. Shifting research to the northern area for the first time, which was previously concentrated in the southern and western sectors, this work is of paramount importance as it offers new data that could completely reshape our understanding of architectural and social organization during humanity's transition to settled life.
First Geomagnetic Surveys in the Northern Sector
Within the scope of the Legacy for the Future Project carried out by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, work has been concentrated in a new area measuring approximately 80 by 70 meters in the north of Göbeklitepe [1]. Initial surface surveys and geomagnetic measurements conducted in the region revealed large-scale public structures and huts buried underground [2]. Experts state that these geophysical data contain groundbreaking clues regarding the spatial organization of Neolithic communities.
Rectangular-Planned Structures of the 8th Millennium BCE
In the initial phase of the excavations in the northern sector, rectangular-planned structures dating to Göbeklitepe's second phase, roughly the 8th millennium BCE, were unearthed [3]. Differing from the circular-planned temple architecture of the southern and western mounds, which have been sheltered under protective roofs until now, these rectangular structures reveal the chronological development and architectural transformation of the settlement. Ministry officials stated that excavation, restoration, and conservation works are being carried out simultaneously with a holistic approach at the site.
Sources and further reading
- [1] Tarihin sıfır noktasında yeni keşif heyecanı
- [2] Harran Üniversitesi'nden Vox Humanis'e Gurur Buluşması
- [3] Eyyübiye'de 52 Kişilik Alım Tartışması Büyüyor
Image & News Source: Sabah / sabah.com.tr