Karahan Tepe Diet Analysis: Gazelle Dominated Meat, Legumes Key Plant Food. Lab analysis of sediment from 2025 excavation season revealed dietary patterns Wild gazelle was the primary meat source at Karahan Tepe Diet was more specific compared to sister site Göbekli Tepe which had greater animal diversity
New lab analysis of sediment from Karahan Tepe reveals wild gazelle was the primary meat source, with inhabitants using nearby desert kite traps for hunting. Surprisingly, legumes—not cereals—emerged as the key plant food, suggesting a more balanced diet than expected. Researchers say the dietary strategy combined seasonal hunting, plant gathering, and possibly early cultivation at this 10,000-12,000 year old site.
Key Facts
- Lab analysis of sediment from 2025 excavation season revealed dietary patterns
- Wild gazelle was the primary meat source at Karahan Tepe
- Diet was more specific compared to sister site Göbekli Tepe which had greater animal diversity
- Desert kite animal traps near Karahan Tepe were used for catching gazelle
- Legumes were an important plant food source - contrary to expectations of cereals and grains dominating
- Findings suggest a more balanced diet among inhabitants
- Dietary strategy involved seasonal hunting, plant gathering, and possibly early cultivation
- Site dates to approximately 10,000 to 12,000 years ago
Related site: Karahan Tepe — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.
Source: NEW DISCOVERY | Karahan Tepe Reveals 12,000-Year-Old Diet by Ancient Architects