Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism: Göbeklitepe and Karahantepe May Bring New Interpretations to History
Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism Gökhan Yazgı stated that the ongoing Neolithic Age excavations in Göbeklitepe and Karahantepe in Şanlıurfa could bring new perspectives to history. Yazgı stated that Şanlıurfa is an important center of cultural tourism in Turkey. He emphasized that the Şanlıurfa Neolithic Age Research Project has great value in terms of the cultural richness of the city. Stating that simultaneous excavations are currently ongoing in 12 different regions in the city, Yazgı stated that the Taş Tepeler Project, which includes Göbeklitepe and Karahantepe, sheds light on history.
Yazgı said, “We have strengthened our goal of protecting our country’s historical heritage and transferring it to future generations with the projects we have carried out in archaeological excavation areas. The Karahantepe excavation is particularly noteworthy. Thanks to this excavation, unique cultural artifacts were reached and scientific studies are still ongoing. We believe that our cultural heritage will be further enriched with the excavations carried out in Göbeklitepe, Karahantepe and other hills.”
Important Presentations to be Made at the World Neolithic Congress
Stating that the artifacts found in Göbeklitepe and Karahantepe have attracted great international interest, Yazıcı emphasized that archaeological studies are full of surprises. Stating that Turkey’s cultural heritage is a subject of curiosity and is being followed, Yazgı said that scientists are meticulously working on new discoveries. Touching on the importance of scientific research, Yazgı said, “Although Göbeklitepe and Karahantepe belong to similar periods, they draw attention with their different structures and functions. The findings obtained from these areas will help us understand our history better. These issues will be discussed “in detail at the World Neolithic Congress to be held in Şanlıurfa in November, and the scientific results that will emerge will have a worldwide impact.”
