Safeguarding history where it began: Karahantepe gets protective roof
A protective roof is being constructed for artifacts unearthed during excavations at Karahantepe Archaeological Site in Sanliurfa, one of the important settlements of the Neolithic era. (AA Photo)
Construction of a protective roof has begun at the Karahantepe Archaeological Site in Sanliurfa, one of the significant Neolithic settlements in Türkiye, to safeguard the artifacts unearthed during excavations.
A rich archaeological heritage
The ancient remains at Karahantepe were first discovered in 1997 during a cultural inventory survey conducted near Kargali Village within the Tek Tek Mountains National Park in Sanliurfa. The site has since revealed a wealth of historical treasures, drawing attention from the global archaeological community.
In 2017, under the leadership of Professor Necmi Karul, the ‘Gobeklitepe Culture and Karahantepe Excavations’ project commenced, focusing on comprehensive surface surveys. These efforts uncovered over 250 “T”-shaped megaliths resembling those at Gobeklitepe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, initially identified as belonging to the Neolithic era.
Karahantepe’s major discoveries since 2019
Excavations that began in 2019 brought to light numerous structures, statues, and artifacts, dating back to the same era as Gobeklitepe. These findings generated significant interest in the archaeological world, boosting the region’s profile as a historical hub.
The construction of the protective roof aims to preserve the exposed artifacts and enhance the site’s durability against natural elements. Professor Karul explained that the roof was designed not as a monolithic structure but as a modular system that can adapt as excavations expand.
Adaptive and landscape-friendly design
“We are nearing completion of the groundwork for the roof supports. By 2025, approximately 3,500 square meters of the site will be protected,” said Karul.
“Our approach recognizes the potential for archaeological sites to expand over time. Therefore, we designed the roof to be extendable, ensuring it integrates well with the natural topography and does not overshadow the archaeological landscape.”
New facilities to support research
In addition to the roof project, construction of an archaeological research center and a dig house near the site is also underway. These facilities are expected to be completed by the summer of 2025.
“We envision this area as a scientific hub, not only for the Karahantepe team but also for other archaeological teams, geologists, and natural scientists involved in the Tas Tepeler (Stone Mounds) Project,” Karul added. “The facility will feature laboratories for restoration, photography, and archaeometry, offering more than just accommodation.”
The Karahantepe site, part of the broader Stone Mounds Project, continues to shed light on Türkiye’s rich Neolithic heritage, contributing valuable insights into early human civilization.
