Archaeological world to converge in Türkiye’s Sanliurfa for World Neolithic Congress

Groundbreaking discoveries from Neolithic excavations worldwide will take center stage at the World Neolithic Congress, scheduled in Sanliurfa from Nov. 4-8.

This event, organized under the patronage of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, aims to explore and showcase findings from the Neolithic Age (the final phase of the Stone Age).

Sanliurfa, recognized for its connection to the globally renowned Gobeklitepe and the Tas Tepeler (Stone Hills) Project, will serve as the ideal location for this prestigious congress.

The region, steeped in history, has long played a crucial role in unveiling the mysteries of the Neolithic period.

World Neolithic Congress: Leading Neolithic scholars to gather in Sanliurfa

Scholars from 64 countries, including Türkiye, will converge to share their latest research on the Neolithic period. According to professor Necmi Karul, the Coordinator of the Tas Tepeler Project, the congress had originally been slated for 2023 but was postponed because of the devastating earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaras.

“The congress, co-organized by Istanbul University and Harran University, will bring together scholars from different continents and regions to discuss various Neolithic cultures. We anticipate a diverse exchange of ideas,” Professor Karul explained.

Unique opportunity to discuss first stages of Neolithic

Professor Karul emphasized that the congress being held in Sanliurfa is particularly significant, as it will allow experts to discuss the early stages of the Neolithic period within the context of the Tas Tepeler (Stone Hills) Project.

“So far, we have received 702 paper submissions and 61 poster applications. We expect around 1,000 participants, with approximately 1,400 contributors. The congress will also host representatives from nearly 480 institutions worldwide,” he said.

Karul expressed hope that the event would shed new light on long-term research and influence future studies on Neolithic cultures. “This congress has the potential to become a recurring event, perhaps hosted in other countries or regions, but this first edition will certainly stand out,” he added.

First-of-its-kind global discussion on Neolithic findings

For the first time, Neolithic discoveries from across the globe will be discussed in a single forum. Professor Karul highlighted the importance of this gathering, noting the high level of interest and participation.

Besides the academic community, the congress will be open to archaeology enthusiasts, although space is limited. Those interested are encouraged to register early to secure a spot.