Hidden in the hills outside Şanlıurfa, Karahan Tepe is one of Turkey’s most fascinating ancient sites—an 11,000-year-old temple that rivals Göbekli Tepe in mystery. Visiting isn’t difficult, but it does take a little planning.

A haunting human statue carved 12,000 years ago.
The Corpse Statue of Karahan Tepe was found seated in a ritual chamber, ribs exposed. Who was he? What does he represent? Discover one of the most mysterious sculptures ever unearthed—and what it reveals about the dawn of spirituality.

What’s the difference between Gobekli Tepe and Karahan Tepe? Discover how these ancient archaeological sites in Turkey compare in age, architecture, symbolism, and spiritual significance—and why both are key to understanding the origins of civilization.

Buried for over 11,000+ years, Karahan Tepe is one of the oldest sacred sites ever found! Older than the pyramids, older than cities, other than written language and the wheel. This stone temple rewrites the origins of civilization. But who built it… and why?