Catalhoyuk Tourism

Çatalhöyük, located near the modern city of Konya in Turkey, is one of the world's oldest and most significant archaeological sites. Dating back to approximately 7400 BCE to 5700 BCE, it's considered a key site for understanding human prehistory and offers a fascinating glimpse into early Neolithic life. This ancient settlement is characterized by its unique and well-preserved urban plan, which consisted of closely packed mud-brick houses with no streets between them. Residents moved across the roofs of the buildings, entering their homes through openings in the ceilings. The site is particularly noted for the art found within the houses, including wall paintings, sculptures, and elaborate burials signifying a complex society with religious beliefs and practices. Excavations began in the 1960s by British archaeologist James Mellaart and were later continued by Ian Hodder. Çatalhöyük has provided substantial insights into the organization of prehistoric societies, their cultural practices, art, and the Neolithic way of life, challenging traditional views on the rise of civilization. It was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2012, reflecting its outstanding universal value.