Gözlükule Tarsus Mound
An ancient mound revealing 9,000 years of Anatolian history, from Neolithic settlements to its role as Tarsus's ancient port.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Gözlükule Tarsus Mound
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient mound revealing 9,000 years of Anatolian history, from Neolithic settlements to its role as Tarsus's ancient port.
"A green oasis in the city, offering a glimpse into one of Anatolia's oldest civilizations."
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be walking around a historical site and park area. :athletic_shoe:
Check local access
It's an active excavation site, so access might vary. Inquire locally. 💁
Quick Facts
Rating
4.1 · 90 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Neolithic Settlement
Gözlükule Mound
Explore the remnants of one of Anatolia's oldest civilizations, dating back to 5000 BC.
Ancient Port of Tarsus
Gözlükule Mound
Imagine this hilltop as the bustling ancient port that connected Tarsus to the wider world.
Forested Park Area
Gözlükule Mound
Enjoy a green oasis in the city, offering a peaceful respite amidst historical significance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Excavation Status
Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be walking around a historical site and park area. :athletic_shoe:
Check local access
It's an active excavation site, so access might vary. Inquire locally. 💁
Appreciate the greenery
Enjoy the surprising green space in the city center. :evergreen_tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be walking around a historical site and park area. :athletic_shoe:
Check local access
It's an active excavation site, so access might vary. Inquire locally. 💁
Appreciate the greenery
Enjoy the surprising green space in the city center. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate Gözlükule Tarsus Mound for its significant historical depth, showcasing continuous settlement from the Neolithic era. The forested park area offers a pleasant green space within the city, providing a tranquil environment to reflect on the ancient past. While it's an active excavation site with potentially limited direct access, its importance to Anatolian archaeology is widely recognized.
"Just great"
STEEZY Haha
"Gözlükule Mound, the first settlement in Tarsus and located in the present-day district center, was excavated and studied by an American team under the direction of Hetty Goldman as a Bryn Mawr College project between 1935 and 1939 and 1947 and 1949. The results of the Goldman Period excavations, published in three volumes since the 1950s, constitute one of the fundamental reference sources for Anatolian archaeology. Thirty-three layers from these periods have been identified.
This settlement, understood to have been founded approximately 9,000 years ago in the Neolithic Period, is known to have been inhabited continuously for extended periods until the Early Islamic Period. The Gözlükule Mound excavations began with research conducted by Prof. Dr. Aslı Özyar and her team from Boğaziçi University between 2001 and 2006, and excavations began in 2007. Excavations and research are currently ongoing."
Abdurrahim Vural
"This area, once the site of Ramadan cannon fire, is now a fenced-off excavation site. It's heartwarming to suddenly see such a green area in the middle of the city. I hope it receives the necessary attention and investment."
Selin Özmen
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gözlükule Mound is located southeast of Tarsus city center. It's accessible by local transport or a short taxi ride from the main city areas. The site is now a forested park, making it a pleasant area to explore on foot once you arrive.
Yes, it's a prominent landmark southeast of the city. Its elevated position as a mound makes it relatively easy to spot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
As Gözlükule is largely a forested park area and an active excavation site, general access to the park is usually free. However, specific viewing platforms or guided tours related to the excavation might have separate arrangements or fees. It's best to check locally for any current ticketing information.
The forested park area is generally accessible during daylight hours. For any specific excavation viewing areas, it's advisable to inquire locally as access might be limited to working hours for the archaeological team.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the forested park area and learn about its history as a continuous settlement from the Neolithic to the Early Islamic period. It was also the ancient port of Tarsus. While direct excavation access may be limited, the site offers a glimpse into significant Anatolian history.
Yes, the site is a forested park, making it suitable for walking. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be exploring the grounds.
Information on specific facilities like restrooms or cafes is limited. It's recommended to come prepared with water and any necessities, especially if planning a longer visit to the park area.
📸 📸 Photography
The forested park offers scenic views, especially during sunrise or sunset. Capture the contrast between the natural greenery and the historical significance of the mound. The elevated position might offer good panoramic shots of the surrounding area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit