Gobeklitepe, an extraordinary archaeological site nestled near the village of Orencik, approximately 15 kilometers northeast of Şanlıurfa province in the Southeastern Anatolia region of Turkey, holds an important place in human history. Its origins can be traced back to a remarkable period around 9600-9500 BC (Which means it is 7500 years older than the oldest artwork), making it a true testament to the ancient world.

What sets Gobeklitepe apart from other archaeological sites is its distinction as the oldest known temple complex of the Neolithic Age. It stands as a testament to human ingenuity and craftsmanship, as its construction predates the established agricultural communities of its time. This remarkable fact makes it an intriguing subject of study and fascination for archaeologists and historians alike.

In the 1960s, researchers stumbled upon intriguing traces of giant stone pillars during surface surveys conducted in the area. These initial discoveries piqued the curiosity of experts, and in the 1990s, excavation works were initiated under the guidance of German archaeologist Klaus Schmidt. As the layers of time were meticulously peeled away, the true grandeur and complexity of Gobeklitepe began to emerge.

Spanning an expansive area of approximately 20 hectares, Gobeklitepe is more than just a single temple complex. It comprises multiple interconnected temple structures, each consisting of massive obelisks. These awe-inspiring obelisks are carved in a distinct T-shape (Which is supposed to represent the human body.) and adorned with intricate animals (Scorpions, foxes, foxes, snakes, wild boars, storks, and cranes.) figures, geometric motifs, and striking reliefs. Their construction's sheer scale and artistic sophistication testify to the advanced skills and capabilities of the people who erected them.

Archaeologists say the floor of the temple remains made liquid-impermeable. This design may show that they perform Ceremonies with a liquid (blood, water, alcohol, etc.).
While the current findings alone are sufficient to make Gobeklitepe an incredible discovery, it is worth noting that a much more significant portion of the site is buried intentionally with soil and still awaiting to be discovered underground, as revealed by radar scans (20 temples have been spotted in the area, and only six of them has been unearthed so far.).

Despite the ongoing research, the precise purpose of these temple complexes continues to elude scholars. It is widely believed that they served religious or ritualistic functions, acting as sacred spaces for the communities that inhabited the region thousands of years ago. Some theories even propose that these temples acted as centers of cultural exchange, where diverse civilizations converged to share knowledge and expertise, particularly in areas such as agriculture. However, conclusive evidence supporting such claims has yet to be found, leaving room for continued exploration and speculation.

The historical significance and remarkable archaeological value of Gobeklitepe were recognized in 2018 when it was inscribed on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List. Today, a section of the site is open to visitors, providing a unique opportunity to witness Gobeklitepe up close and explore the ongoing archaeological excavations.