Birthplace of Neolithic civilization? Untold story of Cakmaktepe’s ancient builders

Located in Türkiye’s Sanliurfa, the archaeological site of Cakmaktepe has been identified as a settlement that predates Gobeklitepe and other “Tas Tepeler” (Stone Mounds) for nearly 1,000 years.

This groundbreaking discovery has drawn global attention, particularly during the World Neolithic Congress recently held in Sanliurfa.

As part of the Tas Tepeler Project, Cakmaktepe offers remarkable insights into the early Neolithic period, redefining the historical narrative of humanity’s first settlements.

Revealing precursor to Gobeklitepe

Excavations at Cakmaktepe, situated in the Eyyubiye district, began in 2021 under the direction of Associate Professor Fatma Sahin. Pre-excavation surface material suggested that Cakmaktepe could represent a settlement older than both Gobeklitepe and Karahantepe.

Although radiocarbon (C-14) dating is still pending, Sahin explains that the chipped stone artifacts date the site to an era as early as 10,000 B.C.

Distinctive structures unearthed

Cakmaktepe showcases a mix of small shelters and larger communal or specialized structures. Sahin noted:

At Gobeklitepe, these are often referred to as temples. Here, we call them ‘special’ or ‘communal structures.’ One of the excavated structures, carved from bedrock, measures about 16 meters in diameter. This building was intentionally buried when abandoned, similar to Gobeklitepe.

The dismantling process at Cakmaktepe was meticulous. Standing stones were carefully placed aside, and wall stones were stacked systematically, highlighting the advanced planning and cultural practices of the era.

Architectural evolution: From simplicity to grandeur

Unlike the iconic “T-shaped” pillars at Gobeklitepe, the standing stones at Cakmaktepe are simpler, resembling “I” shapes with no carvings or engravings.

These are prototypes of the ornate pillars at Gobeklitepe,” Sahin remarked. “Wooden beams were used, and it’s possible the decorations were carved into the wood, which has not survived.

The site’s architectural ingenuity is evident in the construction of a 16-meter-diameter structure with a roof, a feat that reflects the accumulated knowledge that would later manifest in Gobeklitepe and Karahantepe.

Findings reflect ritualistic practices

Archaeologists have uncovered burned animal skulls, including those of wild cattle, sheep, gazelles, and equids, near the walls of a semi-excavated structure. Sahin explained:

The skulls were placed at the base of the walls, likely burned to strengthen them—a clear ritualistic practice. Unlike Gobeklitepe and Karahantepe, where animal depictions dominate carvings, these skulls might have been used as masks.

Cycle of renewal: Burial and rebuilding

One of the most intriguing aspects of Cakmaktepe is the deliberate burial of its structures before abandonment. Sahin offers a profound explanation:

When we lose a loved one, we bury them, but their memory remains valuable. Similarly, these communities buried their structures to preserve their significance before building anew.

Cakmaktepe: Window into humanity’s past

Cakmaktepe stands as a testament to the ingenuity and evolving practices of Neolithic communities in Türkiye.

As excavation work continues, the site promises to further illuminate the origins of monumental architecture and ritualistic traditions that laid the foundation for iconic sites like Gobeklitepe.