Sefertepe: On the Trail of Neolithic Societies

Sefertepe is an important Neolithic settlement site located in Eskikale Village of Viranşehir district of Şanlıurfa. The site was discovered in 2003, and excavations began in 2021 to investigate it in greater depth.

Discovery and Significance

Sefertepe was discovered by a history student. The first steps of the studies in the region were taken when the student resembled the stones in the village to those in Göbeklitepe and mentioned this to his teacher. This discovery placed Sefertepe among the important centres of the Neolithic period in the region.

Human Skeletons and Skulls

Recent excavations revealed that Sefertepe was a Neolithic settlement. Trench 19 yielded a large number of human skeletons and skulls; especially the finds in the area called 'Skull Room' provide important information about the Neolithic skull cult. These finds provide insight into the burial rituals and social structure of the period.

Beads and Artistic Interactions

During the excavations at Sefertepe, beads made of materials not found in the region were discovered. These beads reveal the cultural interactions of Sefertepe during the Neolithic period. Especially the beads with leopard and vulture figures reveal the connections of the region with other important Neolithic settlements.

Pillars and Public Spaces

The pillars at Sefertepe reflect the social structure of the Neolithic period. In particular, pillars in public spaces are important as centres for social or ritual activities.

Discover Sefertepe

Sefertepe is home to important finds from the Neolithic period. As the excavations progress, more will be learnt about the Neolithic societies and the relationships of this settlement with other stone mounds in the region.

Discover Sefertepe with Stone Mounds now! You can learn about the excavations in the region and their results, and step into the depths of the past. Try Stone Mounds to experience Sefertepe and go on a journey of history!