Karahan Tepe Şanlıurfa Province
Discover Karahan Tepe, a 12,000-year-old archaeological marvel in Şanlıurfa, predating Göbeklitepe and offering a profound glimpse into early human ci...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid intense sun and crowds
Karahan Tepe Şanlıurfa Province
Best Time
Avoid intense sun and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Karahan Tepe, a 12,000-year-old archaeological marvel in Şanlıurfa, predating Göbeklitepe and offering a profound glimpse into early human civilization.
"It looks a lot like gobekli tepe but it is free and not a lot of tourists have discovered it yet."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain can be uneven with cobblestone sections. Sturdy footwear is essential for exploring the site. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Sun Protection
The sun is intense, especially during warmer months. Stay hydrated and protected. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
T-Shaped Columns
Main excavation area
Massive T-shaped columns carved directly into bedrock, some adorned with intricate animal reliefs.
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Human Head Carvings
Various rock faces
Ancient human heads meticulously carved into the natural rock, offering a glimpse into early artistic expression.
Animal Sculptures
Excavation sites
Impressive sculptures of animals, including leopards, found alongside human figures and structures.
Urfa Man Replica
Şanlıurfa Archaeological Museum
A striking replica of the 'Urfa Man,' a seated figure holding his penis, found in the region.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Embrace the Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain can be uneven with cobblestone sections. Sturdy footwear is essential for exploring the site. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Sun Protection
The sun is intense, especially during warmer months. Stay hydrated and protected. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Consider a Local Guide
Guides can offer deep insights into the history and significance of the findings.
Visit the Museum
See artifacts like the 'Urfa Man' at the Şanlıurfa Archaeological Museum. :museum:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain can be uneven with cobblestone sections. Sturdy footwear is essential for exploring the site. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Sun Protection
The sun is intense, especially during warmer months. Stay hydrated and protected. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Consider a Local Guide
Guides can offer deep insights into the history and significance of the findings.
Visit the Museum
See artifacts like the 'Urfa Man' at the Şanlıurfa Archaeological Museum. :museum:
It's Free to Visit!
Unlike some other major sites, Karahan Tepe is currently free to enter. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are deeply impressed by Karahan Tepe's ancient significance and moving atmosphere, often highlighting its status as one of the world's oldest civilizations. The site's impressive carvings and the opportunity to explore an active excavation area are major draws. Some note its remote location and the need for preparation regarding sun and comfortable footwear.
"Wow this is such an impressive and interesting place, the whole experience is very moving. We were very fortunate to have İsmail, whose family had farmed on the lands many many years, it was his dad who discovered the ruins and protected for over 25 years until the authorities arrived to begin the digging. One of the pictures is our guide, İsmail, standing by at his grandmother's burial site where she wanted to be buried on their field long before the civilization was discovered. Karahantepe is 11800 years old and it is the oldest known civilization on the world.
Discovered in 1997, Karahantepe, near the Tek Tek mountains, may be the earliest known human village, predating the construction of Göbekli Tepe by several centuries, dating to between 10,000 and 9500 BCE (older than Gobekli tepe, 46 km west). During its excavation, they found traces of special structures, obelisks, animal sculptures, and other symbols. The site was filled with dirt and rubble at some point, preserving T-topped columns carved into bedrock, described as phallic totems. As of the year 2000, more than 266 columns have been unearthed.
The so-called “Urfa Man” has been found in multiple dig sites within a 100 km area. He stands 1.8 m. tall and is seated holding his penis with both hands. He has a ridged collar bone and defined ribs. We saw him yesterday at the archiological museum.
Excavation is continuing and there will be many more sites to see here in a few years
Definitely put it on your must see list"
Evren Eryurek
"Karahan Tepe is an archaeological site well worth visiting, though it is located in a rather remote area. To reach the mound itself, you need to walk a short distance with a relatively gentle slope. The site lies about 11 km from the main Urfa–Mardin road, and the route is almost entirely paved, except for the last kilometer, which is cobblestone. It’s best to avoid visiting during hot hours or days, as the sun can be quite intense."
Arghavan Abdolmalaki
"Visiting Karahantepe was an amazing experience. This archaeological site is part of the Taş Tepeler project and is sometimes called the “sister site” of Göbeklitepe. It is more than 11,000 years old and shows very rich prehistoric culture. The stone carvings and human figures are really impressive, and you can imagine how people lived thousands of years ago.
The site is still being studied, so not everything is open, but walking around and seeing the excavations makes you feel like you are traveling back in time. The guides give clear explanations, and the visitor center is modern and helpful.
Even if you are not an expert in history, the atmosphere of Karahantepe is unforgettable. It is a very special place and I think it deserves to be seen by everyone who visits Şanlıurfa."
Zerdesh Rengin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Karahantepe is located about 11 km from the main Urfa-Mardin road. The route is mostly paved, with the final kilometer being cobblestone. Hiring a taxi or arranging a private car from Şanlıurfa is the most common way to reach the site. Some TikTok videos show it in relation to other sites like Göbeklitepe and Harran, suggesting it's part of a broader regional exploration.
Public transport directly to Karahan Tepe is limited. It's best to arrange private transport or join a tour that includes the site. The remoteness is part of its charm, but requires some planning.
The roads leading to Karahan Tepe have been improved, with the final stretch being cobblestone. While generally good, it's advisable to have a vehicle that can handle varied terrain.
Yes, Karahan Tepe is an excellent day trip from Şanlıurfa. It's often visited in conjunction with other nearby archaeological sites.
Karahantepe is located approximately 46 km west of Göbeklitepe, making it feasible to visit both on the same day if you have dedicated transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Currently, Karahan Tepe is free to visit, making it an accessible archaeological wonder.
While specific hours aren't always posted, it's best to visit during daylight hours. Early morning or late afternoon are recommended to avoid the heat and potential crowds.
No advance booking is required as entry is free. However, if you plan to hire a guide, it's wise to arrange this in advance.
Yes, excavation and research are ongoing at Karahan Tepe, meaning new discoveries are still being made. This adds to the site's dynamic nature.
As an active archaeological site, visitors are expected to respect the area and follow any on-site instructions from personnel. Avoid touching or disturbing any artifacts.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Karahantepe features impressive T-shaped columns carved into bedrock, ancient human head carvings, and various animal sculptures, offering a rich prehistoric experience. +1
Yes, Karahan Tepe is often called the 'sister site' of Göbeklitepe and shares similarities in its ancient structures and artistic motifs, though it is older.
There's a short walk with a relatively gentle slope from where you park to the main mound. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the site.
While facilities can vary, there is a visitor center that is modern and helpful. Restrooms are generally available.
Photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of the archaeological nature of the site and avoid flash photography on sensitive areas if instructed.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Karahan Tepe. It's advisable to bring your own snacks and water, or plan to eat in Şanlıurfa before or after your visit.
The nearest dining options will be in Şanlıurfa, which offers traditional Turkish and regional cuisine.
Picnicking is generally permitted in designated areas, but it's important to clean up after yourself and leave no trace.
📸 📸 Photography
The T-shaped columns and the carved rock faces offer dramatic photographic opportunities. The vast landscape also provides stunning backdrops.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the site management before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. However, visiting during cooler parts of the day is also recommended for comfort.
Be respectful of the archaeological site. Avoid disturbing any structures or artifacts. Flash photography might be restricted in certain areas.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the structures and landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on carvings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities on-site. Sun protection is vital. Consider visiting in the cooler morning hours to keep kids comfortable. The 'Urfa Man' replica at the Şanlıurfa Archaeological Museum is often a point of fascination for children and provides a tangible link to the discoveries.
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
Key highlights for history buffs: Focus on the T-shaped columns carved into bedrock, the intricate animal reliefs, and the unique human figures. Understanding its connection to the 'Taş Tepeler' project and its role in challenging our understanding of early civilization will deepen your appreciation.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Adventurers
Solo traveler tips: Ensure you have reliable transportation arranged. Download offline maps as cell service can be spotty. Embrace the quiet atmosphere and take your time to absorb the ancient energy of the site.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Karahan Tepe
The ongoing excavations at Karahan Tepe are continuously revealing new information about early human civilization. Unlike Göbeklitepe, where access to some areas is restricted, visitors to Karahan Tepe can often get closer to the carvings and structures, providing a more intimate connection with the past.
Karahantepe is a vital part of the larger 'Taş Tepeler' (Stone Hills) project, which aims to uncover and preserve the rich archaeological heritage of the region. Its ongoing excavation promises further revelations that will undoubtedly reshape our understanding of human history.
Navigating Karahan Tepe: Practicalities and Tips
While Karahan Tepe is free to enter, there are no dining facilities on-site. Visitors should plan to bring their own snacks and drinks or eat in Şanlıurfa before or after their visit.
Many visitors find that hiring a local guide significantly enhances the experience, providing deeper context and stories about the discoveries.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit