Göbekli Tepe travel guide

Göbekli Tepe, often referred to as the world's first temple, is a prehistoric site that dates back to approximately 9600 to 7300 BC. This archaeological marvel, located in the Southeastern Anatolia Region of Turkey, was first discovered in 1963 during a survey conducted by Istanbul University and the University of Chicago.

The site gained international attention when German archaeologist Klaus Schmidt recognized its significance in 1994. Schmidt and his team uncovered massive carved stones arranged in circular formations, believed to be the remnants of ancient religious practices.

The monoliths at Göbekli Tepe, some of which weigh up to 20 tons, are adorned with intricate carvings of animals and abstract symbols, providing valuable insights into the Neolithic people who constructed them.

Despite decades of research, Göbekli Tepe still holds many secrets. Its purpose, the society that built it, and the reasons for its eventual abandonment remain topics of ongoing debate among scholars. This rich history and enduring mystery make Göbekli Tepe a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious travellers alike.

Göbekli Tepe is remarkable for its age, sheer size, and the intricacy of its design. Dated to the 10th millennium BCE, it is considered to be the world's oldest known megaliths, predating Stonehenge by 6000 years. These stone structures are gigantic, with some reaching up to 20 feet in height and weighing up to 10 tons.

The striking feature of Göbekli Tepe is its intricate carvings. Unlike most sites of its age, the stones are not simply hewn, but are adorned with detailed reliefs and sculptures of animals, including lions, bulls, boars, foxes, gazelles, donkeys, snakes, and birds. These carvings are believed to represent a yet-undeciphered symbolic or ritual language.

Another unique aspect of Göbekli Tepe is its intentional burial. Around 8000 BCE, the site was deliberately filled in with soil, preserving the stones for millennia. This burial, combined with the site's remote location, has protected Göbekli Tepe from the ravages of time and human activity, allowing us a rare glimpse into the spiritual life of our distant ancestors.

The iconic Göbekli Tepe, situated at Örencik, 63290, Örencik, 63050 Haliliye/Şanlıurfa, Türkiye, stands as a must-visit landmark in Şanlıurfa. Its location within the vibrant Şanlıurfa Province offers visitors a seamless connection to the charming landscapes and rich culture of Turkey.

More than just a backdrop of stunning scenery, Şanlıurfa, as a city, is a treasure trove of cultural experiences and modern conveniences. Its unique blend of history and contemporary charm ensures there’s something for every traveler to enjoy.

Göbekli Tepe shines in all seasons, each offering unique sights and experiences. Get additional tips and inspiration from the Şanlıurfa travel guide to make the most of your visit to this city.

Getting to Göbekli Tepe is possible with a variety of transportation options, but planning ahead is essential to ensure a smooth journey in Şanlıurfa, Turkey.

If you're arriving by air or planning to book a flight to Şanlıurfa, you'll arrive at Sanliurfa Airport, which is approximately 15.6 miles (25 km) from the city center. From there, you can then plan your onward journey with a taxi, shuttle, or private transfer for a direct route to Göbekli Tepe.

If you're already in Şanlıurfa, the journey to Göbekli Tepe is an adventure in itself. Located 8.4 miles (13.5 km) from central Şanlıurfa, you can choose from local buses, taxis, or guided tours to reach it. Göbekli Tepe is situated at Örencik, 63290, Örencik, 63050 Haliliye/Şanlıurfa, Türkiye, and is well worth the trip!

Prepare for an unforgettable journey of discovery in Turkey. With your travel plans set, you're ready to embark on a memorable experience at Göbekli Tepe.

The best time to explore Göbekli Tepe is between April and June, or September and November. These periods typically offer mild and pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing at this archaeological marvel. In particular, spring (April to June) is often considered the most favorable time, as the site is less crowded and the surrounding landscape is beautifully adorned with blooming wildflowers. Additionally, the Şanlıurfa Culture and Art Festival, which usually takes place in October, adds a unique cultural dimension to a fall visit. Travelers should note that the site is closed on Mondays and the timings are from 8 am to 7 pm from April to October, and from 9 am to 5 pm from November to March. To avoid the heat of the day and larger crowds, an early morning or late afternoon visit is recommended. This also provides the opportunity to experience the site in different lighting, enhancing the mystique of Göbekli Tepe's ancient stones.

When planning a trip to Göbekli Tepe, booking perfectly planned travel packages to Şanlıurfa is an excellent way to make your journey stress-free and enjoyable. As Göbekli Tepe is located in an area that can be tricky to navigate without proper planning, these packages handle logistics by organizing transportation, accommodations, and activities.

Delve deeper and discover the top travel plans for exploring Göbekli Tepe in Turkey.

Make your journey to Göbekli Tepe and the breathtaking sights of Turkey unforgettable by traveling on your terms with a rental car.

Local rental companies in Şanlıurfa offer vehicles for every type of trip.

Click 'See More' below to discover other affordable options for exploring Şanlıurfa and beyond.

When preparing for your visit to Göbekli Tepe, it's essential to find the perfect place to stay. Discover your perfect accommodation near Göbekli Tepe in this section, with options for all travel types—carefully selected from the biggest selection of hotels and places to stay in Şanlıurfa.

Start each day with a breathtaking view, setting the perfect tone for your exploration of Göbekli Tepe. With round-the-clock customer support, best price guarantees, and top-rated accommodations, you can rest easy knowing you're in good hands.

One of the top spots to explore is Mutfak Muzesi. Mutfak Muzesi is located in Camikebir, 1349. Sk. No:3, 63210 Şanlıurfa Merkez/Şanlıurfa, Türkiye.

Whether you’re visiting for a brief stop or planning to spend more time exploring, this attraction adds something special to your trip. You can visit it at Beykapusu, 970. Sk. No:43, 63210 Eyyübiye/Şanlıurfa, Türkiye.

Located at 138 Tepe, Harran Kapı Cd. No:136, 63200 Şanlıurfa Merkez/Şanlıurfa, Türkiye giving you ample opportunities to enjoy the site.

Check out the full list of top attractions in Şanlıurfa below to discover even more incredible places to visit.