The Archaeologist

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Why was Göbekli Tepe Abandoned 10,000 Years Ago?

As climatic conditions improved following the Younger Dryas climate catastrophe, southeastern Anatolia flourished as a region abundant in living resources. It became a fertile ground for the emergence of agriculture and human civilization, as new pre-pottery Neolithic centers began to take shape.

Among these settlements, Göbekli Tepe stands out with its remarkable size, monumental architecture, and its astonishingly ancient radiocarbon dates, stretching back over 11,500 years. This has earned it the title of the "Zero Point of History."

Despite its prominence during a pivotal period in climatic history, like many ancient settlements, Göbekli Tepe was eventually abandoned, between 8,241 and 7,795 BC. Although not a city or town, it was a large village by the standards of its time, thriving for approximately 1,500 years. However, the question remains: why was the site ultimately abandoned?

In this video, we delve into the latest archaeological findings and interpretations, re-evaluating the claims made by archaeologists such as Klaus Schmidt and popularized by media and authors like Graham Hancock. Was Göbekli Tepe intentionally covered and abandoned as part of a ritual? Or were there other factors at play? Join us as we explore the mysteries surrounding the enigmatic site and uncover the truth behind its abandonment.