Ancient marvel Gobeklitepe welcomes 30,000 visitors during Eid al-Fitr

Gobeklitepe, the 12,000-year-old archaeological wonder known as the “zero point of history” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has once again proven its popularity by attracting 30,000 visitors during the Ramadan holiday.

This ancient site in Sanliurfa continues to be a major attraction for both domestic and international tourists. Since 2019, when President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared it the “Year of Gobeklitepe,” interest in the site has soared, bringing in record-breaking numbers of visitors every year.

Increased interest expected throughout the holiday season

Visitors from all over Türkiye flocked to Gobeklitepe during Eid al-Fitr, taking advantage of the extended holiday period to explore the world’s oldest known cult center. Over the course of the holiday, 30,000 tourists visited the site, and experts anticipate that this number will continue to rise by the end of the nine-day holiday break.

Due to the overwhelming influx of visitors, authorities have set up designated parking areas nearly two kilometers from the site. Free shuttle services transport guests to the entrance, where they can purchase tickets before entering the 12,000-year-old sacred grounds.

Gobeklitepe: The driving force of cultural tourism

Aydin Aslan, Director of Culture and Tourism for Sanliurfa, highlighted the continued surge in interest since the government’s official recognition of Gobeklitepe in 2019. He emphasized the significance of both Gobeklitepe and Karahantepe as key components of the Tastepeler project, a large-scale archaeological initiative shedding light on the Neolithic era.

“We are witnessing a massive turnout, with 30,000 visitors recorded in just the first three days of Eid al-Fitr. Gobeklitepe remains a cultural tourism powerhouse, not only for Sanliurfa but for the entire country,” Aslan stated. “We have multiple parking areas, but even those are reaching capacity. This site is a national treasure, and its growing popularity is a source of great pride for us.”

Sanliurfa has positioned itself as a leading hub of Neolithic heritage, thanks to ongoing excavations under the Tastepeler project. The region offers a diverse tourism experience, blending archaeological wonders with religious heritage and culinary tourism.

“Sanliurfa continues to break its own records every year. Despite setbacks caused by the 2023 earthquake, the tourism sector rebounded quickly in 2024. Our expectations for 2025 are even higher. By 2026 or 2027, we anticipate annual visitor numbers to approach 1.5 to 2 million,” Aslan added.

Visitors from across Türkiye share their experiences

Tourists from various regions of Türkiye shared their excitement about visiting Gobeklitepe. Kadir Irenci, who traveled from Trabzon with friends as part of a southeastern Türkiye tour, expressed his fascination with the site.

“Gobeklitepe was one of the most important stops on our trip. There’s so much history here, and seeing it in person is an unforgettable experience. I encourage everyone to visit,” he said.

Aykan Orsan, a visitor from Manisa, had long been curious about Gobeklitepe and finally had the chance to explore its ancient wonders. “The world’s oldest structures are right here, and it’s truly mesmerizing to witness them up close,” he remarked.

Meanwhile, Muhammet Isuk from Batman took advantage of the holiday to visit the historic site with friends. “Even though we live nearby, this is my first time seeing Gobeklitepe. It’s an incredible place, and I recommend that everyone experience it at least once,” he said.

Gobeklitepe’s timeless allure

Gobeklitepe remains a beacon of historical and cultural significance, drawing visitors eager to witness the birthplace of civilization.

With increasing interest and improved accessibility, this archaeological treasure is set to attract even more visitors in the coming years, solidifying its place as one of the most significant heritage sites in the world.