Excavation Begins in Northern Sector of Göbeklitepe

Göbeklitepe, the ancient archaeological site in Turkey, is expanding its research horizons with the commencement of excavation work in its northern sector for the first time. This new phase of exploration, part of the 'Legacy to the Future Project,' aims to uncover more about the prehistoric settlement.

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We are taking our research in Göbeklitepe to new areas. Within the scope of our Legacy to the Future Project, we have started excavation work for the first time in an area of approximately 80 by 70 meters in the northern part of the mound.

The newly opened excavation area covers approximately 80 by 70 meters. Initial surface surveys and geomagnetic measurements suggest the presence of large public structures, as well as rectangular buildings and huts in this region. This expansion signifies a move to broaden the understanding of Göbeklitepe beyond the areas previously focused on the south and west of the mound.

Alongside the new excavations, ongoing work continues in the GT1 and GT2 areas, which are situated under separate protective roofs. Conservation and reinforcement efforts are also being carried out simultaneously in structures designated as C and D. Specifically, the final pieces of a monolith in Structure C are being placed, and the walls of Structure D, along with the ground connections of its central monoliths, are being reinforced. Steel ropes are being used to secure the monoliths against seismic activity.

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Surface surveys and geomagnetic measurements indicate that large-scale public structures, as well as rectangular buildings and huts, are located in this region as well.

Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced the developments via his social media account, highlighting the integrated approach to preserving this unique heritage. Renovated walkways, designed to accommodate the new excavation areas, will soon be accessible to visitors. The project aims to carry Göbeklitepe's legacy into the future through simultaneous excavation, restoration, and conservation efforts across different parts of the site, revealing structures dating back to the 8th millennium BC.

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We are carrying this unique heritage into the future with a holistic approach by conducting excavation, restoration, and conservation work simultaneously at different points of Göbeklitepe.