Expedition to Van region reveals new sites possibly predating Göbekli Tepe

Expedition to Van region reveals new sites possibly predating Göbekli Tepe. Exploration of several new archaeological sites in eastern Turkey near Lake Van Sites may potentially predate Göbekli Tepe The region lacks tourism infrastructure and is relatively unknown

Archaeologists exploring Turkey's southeast near Şanlıurfa have found new sites that could predate Göbekli Tepe. The region, part of Turkey's Taş Tepeler project, includes sites like Mendik Tepe, Karahantepe, and Sayburç that are reshaping understanding of prehistory. The sites lack tourism infrastructure in some areas but are active excavations. The ministry-led project encompasses 12 Neolithic sites of settled communities in Şanlıurfa dating back to 9,500 BC, with Göbeklitepe and other sites currently being excavated.

Key facts claimed:

- Exploration of several new archaeological sites in southeastern Turkey near Şanlıurfa (not Lake Van)

- Sites may potentially predate Göbekli Tepe

- The region lacks tourism infrastructure and is relatively unknown

- Sites are open archaeological dig sites with active excavations

- Local officials have suggested sites could be older than Göbekli Tepe

Key Facts

• Exploration of several new archaeological sites in eastern Turkey near Lake Van
• Sites may potentially predate Göbekli Tepe
• The region lacks tourism infrastructure and is relatively unknown
• Sites are open archaeological dig sites with active excavations
• Local mayor suggested site could be older than Göbekli Tepe and change the world
• Documentary 'The Missing Key' filmed at multiple locations including Turkey, Peru, and Cambodia

Related site: Glastonbury Lake Village — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.

Source: Older Than Göbekli Tepe? New Discoveries in Türkiye - Matthew LaCroix, Robert Edward Grant by Matthew LaCroix