Olive tree orchards have been planted directly atop the ancient ruins surrounding Göbekli Tepe in Turkey, and researchers have confirmed tree roots are already penetrating basements and destroying infrastructure underground. The roots are damaging the megalithic ruins, and fully excavating the site would require removing these trees — but that would likely cause further damage to what lies beneath.
Steel beams drilled into Göbekli Tepe bedrock risking damage
TürkiyeHeritage
Key facts
- A massive roof and viewing platform was built directly on top of the main enclosures of T-pillars
- Steel beams were drilled directly into the bedrock foundation of the site
- The platform extends over portions of the ruins which have not yet been excavated
- The construction was done before further excavation should have taken place
- Tourism was made the priority over excavations
- Pillar 43 is located near one of these steel beams
- The late Claus Schmidt's wife claimed ruins were damaged during construction at Göbekli Tepe
Site mentioned
Sources
Ancient Gobekli Tepe site meets conspiracy theories - NPRnpr.org
German archaeologist Klaus Schmidt, who pioneered excavations at the ancient site of Gobekli Tepe, carries out research in Sanliurfa, Turkey, ...
Göbeklitepe moves olive trees to safeguard ancient artifactshurriyetdailynews.com
The trees are carefully uprooted using a technique that exposes their roots without causing harm. Once removed, the trees are handed over to the ...
Gobeklitepe controversy leads to removal of trees—here is whyturkiyetoday.com
Olive tree relocation clears way for expanding excavations at Gobeklitepe · Excavation head denied claims that work had been halted in 2024 · Why ...
Gobeklitepe moves olive trees to safeguard ancient artifactsaa.com.tr
Gobeklitepe moves olive trees to safeguard ancient artifacts. 'As trees grew, their roots began to damage remains beneath surface,' says ...
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