Göbekli Tepe means something like bulbous hill. And has thrown the archaeological world into turmoil. The finds here raise important questions about how, when and why complex human societies emerged.
So we set off to explore the whole thing. Unfortunately, there is no sign of the great view we were promised today. We're all alone, which is probably due to the thickest fog we've ever had.
The audio guide tells us a lot and we immerse ourselves in the mysticism. First in the really great interactive exhibition (we are still hoping that the fog will clear), then we trudge up the bulbous mountain to admire the stone circles and probably the oldest temples.
The mountain, or rather the pile, the result of great organisation and imagination, is not only the oldest monument of its kind, but in many ways represents the (new) ground zero of history. The fact that people who lived as hunter-gatherers built temples to such a high architectural standard has caused worldwide astonishment.
Göbekli Tepe, dated to around 9600 to 8200 BC, is older than all previously known agricultural societies. The discovery that this monumental site was built by a society that was not yet established in agriculture challenges the traditional view that complex social structures only emerged after the development of agriculture. The temple, which was designed and built around 12,000 years ago, has caused a worldwide sensation as it is around 7,500 years older than the pyramids in Egypt and Stonehenge in England.
The wishing tree at the top of the mountain has almost disappeared in the fog. We pause for a moment and, for once, don't make a wish. Because here we wish for fertility and many children of our own. As we are quite happy with our fertility and grateful for our children (and have closed the subject for the time being, at least for us), we don't tie a wish ribbon to the tree. And leave room for the many couples who have yet to start a family.
Sources: https://www.kulturportali.gov.tr/portal/gobeklitepe & https://www.ktb.gov.tr/TR-288623/gobeklitepe.html & https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/G%C3%B6bekli_Tepe
Merci for "travelling with us
Our first lectures in Switzerland are planned. Others in Germany could follow. We'll see. We would love to take you into the Persian world somewhere in western Germany and also in the Berlin area. We are still looking for venues. If you know anything, please write to us.
Lecture & Persian tea time Camels, cultures & many contrasts Life-pure travelling with the camper through mysterious Persia
Two dates:21.06.24 or 28.06.24; 7 pm Muri/Bern 21 or 28 June 2024 - start 7 pm, doors open at 6:45 pm RoomZoom - Thunstrasse 162 - 3074 Muri b. Bern
We are happy about 20 CHF per person. Kids are free of charge.Please register by e-mail: andrea.kormann@dakor.ch
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