Holidays in Turkey are a great opportunity not only to sunbathe on excellent beaches to the sound of sea waves, but also to become a member of a rich excursion program. In whatever city or place of the country you are in, you will find the most amazing examples of historical monuments, some of which are millions of years old. One of such sights is the Gobeklitepe Temple complex in the Turkish province of Sanliurfa. Read more about this amazing place, how to get there, where to stop and have a meal nearby.

History of Gobeklitepe Temple Complex

Scientists and archaeologists have not been able to establish the exact date of construction of the Gobeklitepe Temple complex. However, they all agreed that this happened no less than in the 9th century BC. The complex consists of round and semicircular structures of huge stone blocks. On some of them, relief is still visible as decorations.

Scientists discovered this temple complex only in the 1960s. However, initially the researchers did not even guess what ancient mystery they were dealing with. After a geomagnetic study in 2003, it became clear that archaeologists have found the largest religious building from the Neolithic era.

Gobeklitepe, Gobeklitepe Temple Complex, Sanliurfa / Turkey

In the scientific community, there are several versions of what this structure could be. The first version and the main one is a prehistoric temple complex. The second one is an ancient observatory. You can join any of these versions, or create your own after visiting Gobeklitepe.

Today, archaeological work at the site continues and only 5% of the ancient structure has been excavated. Therefore, it is likely that in the future we will expect amazing discoveries and surprises associated with this place.

How to get to Gobeklitepe Temple Complex

Gobeklitepe Temple complex is located just 8 km from the center of Sanliurfa, so it will be easy to get here. The easiest way is to get to the complex by taxi. Travel time takes only about 20 minutes. If you have a driver’s license, you can rent a car. In the city center, you can easily find car rental offices.

Gobeklitepe, Gobeklitepe Temple Complex, Sanliurfa / Turkey

Nearest hotels to Gobeklitepe Temple Complex

If you decide that after visiting Gobeklitepe you will stay in Sanliurfa, you will easily find the right hotel. There are not many, but you will have plenty to choose from. Among them:

  • Grand Urfa Hotel
  • Manici Hotel
  • Dedeman Sanliurfa
  • El Ruha Hotel
  • Aslan Konak Evi
  • Hilton Garden İnn

Gobeklitepe, Gobeklitepe Temple Complex, Sanliurfa / Turkey

Nearest restaurants to Gobeklitepe Temple Complex

Restaurants and cafes in Sanliurfa offer a wide selection of food and drinks. Kebab is considered a traditional dish in the province, but other Turkish dishes and European dishes are also on the menu. After visiting Gobeklitepe, head to one of the nearest restaurants and cafes:

  • Altin Lokantasi
  • Cevahir Han Restoran
  • Oduncu Et & Mangal
  • Aziz Usta
  • Okyanus
  • Bayram Kebap Salonu
  • Sembol Restoran