Neolithic Site of Çatalhöyük
Unesco World Heritage

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Neolithic Site of Çatalhöyük

The Neolithic Site of Çatalhöyük is a remarkable archaeological site located in central Anatolia, Turkey. It is considered one of the most important and well-preserved examples of a Neolithic settlement, providing valuable insights into the early stages of human civilization. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2012, Çatalhöyük offers a unique window into the past, allowing us to understand the social, economic, and cultural aspects of a prehistoric community.

History

Çatalhöyük was inhabited between approximately 7500 and 5700 BCE, during the Neolithic period. The site consists of two mounds, known as the East and West Mound, which were formed by successive layers of buildings constructed on top of each other over time. The settlement was home to an estimated 3,000 to 8,000 people, making it one of the largest and most densely populated Neolithic communities.

The people of Çatalhöyük were primarily engaged in agriculture, cultivating crops such as wheat and barley, and rearing livestock including sheep and goats. They also engaged in hunting and gathering activities, exploiting the rich natural resources of the surrounding area. The community was highly skilled in pottery making, producing intricately decorated vessels that served both practical and symbolic purposes.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Çatalhöyük is its unique architectural design. The houses were built in close proximity to each other, with flat roofs serving as communal spaces. The interiors were adorned with vivid murals depicting scenes of daily life, religious rituals, and animal motifs. The absence of streets or doors suggests that access to the houses was through ladders and trapdoors, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the community.

Current State

Today, the Neolithic Site of Çatalhöyük is an active archaeological excavation and research site. Ongoing excavations, led by a team of international experts, continue to uncover new insights into the lives of the ancient inhabitants. The site is open to visitors, offering a unique opportunity to witness the ongoing discoveries and explore the remains of this ancient settlement.

Visitors to Çatalhöyük can explore the reconstructed houses, which provide a glimpse into the daily lives of the Neolithic people. The murals and artifacts found at the site are displayed in the nearby museum, allowing visitors to appreciate the artistic and cultural achievements of this ancient civilization.

Preservation efforts are crucial to ensure the long-term survival of Çatalhöyük. The site faces challenges such as erosion, decay, and the impact of tourism. Conservation measures, including the use of protective shelters and controlled access, are in place to mitigate these risks and safeguard the site for future generations.

The Neolithic Site of Çatalhöyük stands as a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of our early ancestors. Its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage list recognizes its outstanding universal value and the importance of preserving this invaluable archaeological treasure.

Videos from the area

Henry Explains Building 104

Published: December 07, 2011
Length: 09:58 min
Rating: 3 of 5
Author: catalhoyukmedia

At the end of his summer field school, Henry tells his excavation story of building 104 in the South area at Çatalhöyük.

LHotH BACH 061701 F162 02

Published: October 26, 2013
Length: 15:19 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Ruth Tringham

Video record of the excavation and discussion of burials F.634, F.644, F.647 under platform F.162 in the BACH Area of Çatalhöyük during 17 June, 2001. participants Lori Hager, Basak Boz,...

LHotH BACH 061601 kitchen

Published: October 26, 2013
Length: 07:11 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Ruth Tringham

Video diary (14 June) of the excavation of the "kitchen" area in the south of Building 3 in the BACH Area of Çatalhöyük (boundary ridge F.645, numerous postholes, SW platform F.169) recorded...

LHotH BACH 072500

Published: January 25, 2013
Length: 01:20 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Ruth Tringham

BACH project (Catalhöyük Archaeological Project) video diary for July 25, 2000 Videography: Ruth Tringham.

LHotH BACH 060901 trapeze

Published: October 17, 2013
Length: 00:00 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Ruth Tringham

First video record of the mountaineering trapeze set in the BACH shelter for aerial photography in 2001 at the archaeological project of Çatalhöyük, Turkey. ...

LHotH BACH 061201 F162

Published: October 21, 2013
Length: 00:00 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Ruth Tringham

Video diary (11 June) and record of the excavation and discussion of (12 June, 2001) burials F.634, F.644, F.647 under platform F.162, including the discover...

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