A series of remarkable archaeological discoveries in southeast Turkey is reshaping our understanding of the Neolithic period, when humans transitioned from nomadic hunter-gatherers to settled societies over 11,000 years ago. The finds, unveiled at the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Göbeklitepe and Karahantepe in Şanlıurfa province, include a striking statue with a facial expression resembling a deceased individual, which experts say offers new insights into death rituals and symbolic expression.
Among approximately 30 artefacts uncovered were human and animal statues, figurines, vessels, plates, necklaces, and beads, including one crafted in human form. Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy stated that these sites, part of Turkey's Stone Mounds project, demonstrate that humanity had a far higher level of consciousness in belief, rituals, social organisation, and cultural production than previously assumed.
Göbeklitepe is expected to attract around 800,000 visitors this year, highlighting its growing recognition. The ministry-led project encompasses 12 Neolithic sites in Şanlıurfa dating back to 9500 BC, featuring the world's oldest structures for gathering and performance rituals. These include oval-shaped monumental structures up to 28 metres in diameter, surrounded by T-shaped limestone pillars regarded as representations of humans, with animal reliefs on some.
Archaeologists at Karahantepe recently uncovered a T-shaped pillar with a human face, the first known depiction of a human face on such a pillar. Excavation head Necmi Karul described the builders as skilled craftsmen and noted that the project indicates these people were settled hunter-gatherers, challenging the assumption that settled life began with agriculture and animal husbandry.
