Karahantepe to welcome visitors this year with systematic tour route
Participants of the World Neolithic Congress gather at Karahantepe in Sanliurfa, November 6, 2024. (AA Photo)
One of the most significant Neolithic settlements in Türkiye, Karahantepe, is preparing to welcome visitors this year with a structured tour route.
Discovered during surface surveys in 2017, Karahantepe is located in Sanliurfa’s Tek Tek Mountains National Park, approximately 46 kilometers (28.5 miles) from the city center.
The site contains T-shaped monolithic pillars dating back to the Neolithic period (10,000–6,000 B.C.), similar to those found at the world-renowned Gobeklitepe.
Excavations led by Professor Necmi Karul began in 2019, uncovering monumental structures, statues, and various artifacts that have drawn international attention. The discoveries have reinforced the significance of the region in early human history.
To protect the unearthed artifacts displayed on-site, a shelter project is underway. Additionally, efforts have begun to create a structured tour route, allowing visitors to explore the site safely and comprehensively.
Aiming for completion in 2025
Speaking to Anadolu Agency, Professor Necmi Karul noted that approximately 800,000 people visited Gobeklitepe last year, with around 30% of them also expressing interest in Karahantepe.
“As part of the Tas Tepeler (Stone Mounds) Project, excavations have been ongoing here since 2019. Given the high level of interest, we cannot turn visitors away. However, it is crucial to establish facilities that ensure their safety and meet their needs,” Karul stated.
“The completion of the shelter, along with additional elements such as walkways and information panels, will create a more structured experience. We expect these enhancements to be finalized by 2025. While we are already allowing visitors, by the end of this year, we hope to offer a safer and more systematic tour route,” he added.
Discoveries surpassing expectations
Professor Karul emphasized that the ongoing excavations at Karahantepe have been highly productive, yielding remarkable findings.
“The Stone Mounds Project has exceeded our expectations. Over the past five years, we have gathered an immense amount of data, and laboratory studies have helped transform these findings into knowledge. Several publications are in progress to document our discoveries,” Karul explained.
“Although we cannot predict what the future holds, the fact that we have already uncovered far more than anticipated suggests that next year will bring even more exciting results,” he concluded.
Karahantepe is emerging as a key archaeological site alongside Gobeklitepe, shedding new light on Neolithic history. With its upcoming enhancements, the site is set to become a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers exploring Türkiye’s ancient heritage.
