Excavation work has started for the first time in the northern part of the Göbeklitepe mound, an area that previous research had not focused on, which was previously concentrated on the southern and western sections. []
Turkish Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced that research is being moved to new areas as part of the 'Heritage for the Future Project.' [] Ersoy stated, 'We are moving our research to new areas in Göbeklitepe.' []
The new excavation area is approximately 80 by 70 meters in size. [] One report indicates the area covers approximately 1,500 square meters. []
Potential residential structures
Geomagnetic measurements and surface surveys in the new area indicate the presence of rectangular-planned structures, huts, and large-scale public structures. [] Prof. Dr. Necmi Karul, Taş Tepeler Project Coordinator and Göbeklitepe Excavation Head, stated the new area is located north of the roof. []
Karul noted that the rectangular-planned structures found in the new area have a different interior arrangement and fewer monoliths than those in the GT1 area. [] He said, 'Our first impression is that these were used as residences.' [] Karul stated that the simultaneous use of residences and public structures suggests Göbeklitepe was a settlement area as well as a worship center. []
Ongoing protection and excavation
Excavations in the GT1 and GT2 areas, which are under two separate protective roofs, are continuing alongside the new northern excavation area. [] Rectangular-planned structures from the 2nd phase of Göbeklitepe, dating back to the 8,000s BC, have been uncovered in the GT1 and GT2 areas. []
Stabilization and protection works are ongoing in structures A, C, and D. [] In Structure C, stabilization work was largely completed in 2025 and continues in the 2026 season. []
In Structure D, walls have been stabilized and the ground connections of two facing monoliths in the center have been strengthened. [] Monoliths in Structure D are also being protected with steel cables to increase safety against potential tremors. []
Göbeklitepe is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. [] Renovated walking paths are planned to be opened to visitors soon to accommodate the new excavation areas. []
